4.3. Anatomical Snuffbox

Question 1

What is the Anatomical Snuffbox also known as?

Answer 1

Radial Fossa

Question 2

What is the Anatomical Snuffbox?

Answer 2

A Triangular Depression on the Lateral Aspect of the Dorsum of the Hand

Question 3

At what level of the Hand is the Anatomical Snuffbox located?

Answer 3

The Level of the Carpal Bones

Question 4

When is the Anatomical Snuffbox best seen?

Answer 4

When the Thumb is Extended

Question 5

Why is this called the Anatomical Snuffbox?

Answer 5

It was used to hold snuff (ground tobacco) before inhaling in the nose

Question 6

How many Borders does the Anatomical Snuffbox have?

Answer 6

1. 3 x Walls
2. 1 x Floor
3. 1 x Roof

Question 7

What are the 3 Walls of the Anatomical Snuffbox?

Answer 7

1. Proximal Border
2. Ulnar (Medial) Border
3. Radial (Lateral) Border

Question 8

What forms the Proximal Border of the Anatomical Snuffbox?

Answer 8

Styloid Process of the Radius

Question 9

What forms the Ulnar (Medial) Border of the Anatomical Snuffbox?

Answer 9

Tendon of the Extensor Pollicis Longus

Question 10

What forms the Radial (Lateral) Border of the Anatomical Snuffbox?

Answer 10

1. Tendon of the Abductor Pollicis Longus

2. Tendon of the Extensor Pollicis Brevis

Question 11

What forms the Floor of the Anatomical Snuffbox?

Answer 11

1. Scaphoid

2. Trapezium

Question 12

What forms the Roof of the Anatomical Snuffbox?

Answer 12

Skin

Question 13

What are the main contents of the Anatomical Snuffbox?

Answer 13

1. Radial Artery
2. Terminal Branches of the Superficial Branch of the Radial Nerve
3. Cephalic Vein

Question 14

1. Where is the Radial Artery located in the Anatomical Snuffbox?
2. How does the Radial Artery do this?

Answer 14

1. It Crosses the Floor

2. Obliquely

Question 15

Where does the Radial Artery run in relation to the Extensor Tendons?

Answer 15

Deep

Question 16

Can the Radial Pulse be palpated in the Anatomical Snuffbox?

Answer 16

Yes, in some patients.

Question 17

Where are the Terminal Branches of the Superficial Branch of the Radial Nerve located?

Answer 17

Subcutaneously, Across the Roof

Question 18

What do the Terminal Branches of the Superficial Branch of the Radial Nerve provide sensory innervation for?

Answer 18

Lateral 3 1/2 Digits of the Dorsum of the Hand and it’s associated Palmar Area

Question 19

Where is the Cephalic Vein located in the Anatomical Snuffbox?

Answer 19

Subcutaneously, Across the Floor

Question 20

Where does the Cephalic Vein arise from?

Answer 20

The Dorsal Venous Network of the Hand