brainscape_axilla_flashcards

Question 1

What is the axilla, and what is its primary function?

Answer 1

The axilla is a pyramidal space transitioning between the neck and arm. It serves as a passage for nerves, vessels, and muscles connecting the upper limb to the trunk.

Question 2

What structures form the axilla?

Answer 2

The axilla is composed of the clavicle, scapula, upper thoracic wall, humerus, and related muscles.

Question 3

What are the boundaries of the axilla?

Answer 3

The boundaries are:
1. Apex
2. Anterior wall: Pectoralis major, pectoralis minor, subclavius, clavipectoral fascia
3. Posterior wall: Scapula, subscapularis, latissimus dorsi, teres major
4. Medial wall: Ribs, intercostal muscles, serratus anterior, & Intercostobrachial nerve: Supplies skin of the upper posteromedial arm.
5. Lateral wall: Intertubercular sulcus of the humerus (medial & lateral lip + floor)
6. Base: Clavipectoral fascia, skin dome, anterior/posterior axillary folds.

Question 4

What are the key structures of the anterior axilla?
they pass through ___
which artery
which nerve and what does it innervate

Answer 4

1. Major structures passing through the clavipectoral fascia.
2. Lateral thoracic artery (inferior to pectoralis minor).
3. Medial pectoral nerve (penetrates pectoralis minor, innervates pectoralis major and minor).

Question 5

What does the base of the axilla consist of?

Answer 5

Clavipectoral fascia and a dome of skin spanning the walls, with anterior/posterior axillary folds.

Question 6

What are the major contents of the axilla?
___ of upper limb
upper limb innerv & ___
which 2 proximal arm muscles
____ process of breast

Answer 6

1. Major vessels of the upper limb
2. Upper limb innervation (brachial plexus) and lymphatics
3. Proximal arm muscles: Biceps brachii and coracobrachialis
4. Axillary process of the breast.

Question 7

What are the three cords of the brachial plexus in the axilla?

Answer 7

1. Posterior cord: C5-C8, T1
2. Lateral cord: C5-C7
3. Medial cord: C8, T1