Anatomical Snuffbox Flashcards
What is the anatomical snuffbox?
A triangular depression
Where is the anatomical snuffbox found?
On the lateral aspect of the dorsum of the hand
At the level of the carpal bones
When is the anatomical snuffbox best seen?
When the thumb is abducted
What shape is the anatomical snuffbox?
Triangular
What are the borders of the anatomical snuffbox?
Ulnar (medial)
Radial (lateral)
Proximal
What forms the ulnar border of the snuffbox?
Tendon of the extensor pollicis longus
What forms the radial border of the snuffbox?
Tendons of the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis
What forms the proximal border of the snuffbox?
Styloid process of the radius
What forms the floor of the snuffbox?
Carpal bones- scaphoid and trapezium
What forms the roof of the anatomical snuffbox?
Skin
What is the main contents of the snuffbox?
Radial artery
Branch of radial nerve
Cephalic vein
Where does the radial artery cross?
The floor of the anatomical snuffbox, in an oblique manner
Where does the radial artery run?
Deep to the extensor tendons
Where do the terminal branches of the superficial branch of the radial nerve run?
Subcutaneously, across the roof of the snuffbox
What do the terminal branches of the superficial branch of the radial nerve provide?
Innervation to the skin of the lateral 3 1/2 digits on the dorsum of the hand, and the associated palm area
