L3.3 - Elbow & Forearm, bones & muscles

Question 1

Fracture of distal radius is known as a

Answer 1

Colles fracture

Question 2

What happens when you fall on a flexed elbow? What is compromised?

Answer 2

Breaking of olecranon process -> dislocation of elbow joint

It compromises median nerve, brachial artery, aka volkman’s ischaemic contracture

Question 3

What can cause compartment syndrome?

Answer 3

Rise in pressure - from bleeding or oedema compressing contents

Question 4

List in increasing order, what is likely to be affected by compartment syndrome.

Arteries, veins and lymphatics, superficial nerves, deep nerves

Answer 4

Veins and lymphatics, superficial nerves, arteries, deep nerves

*Vascular system with thinnest body walls get compressed first

Question 5

Describe the area the cubital fossa is located in

Answer 5

Medially: PT
Laterally: brachioradialis
Roof: bicipital aponeurosis
Floor: brachialis

Contents: median cubital vein, cutaneous nerves, brachial artery (ulnar and radial arteries), median and radial nerves - often but not always part of cubital fossa contents as it is in the vicinity of it (laterally).

Question 6

When measuring the pulse rate at the wrist which easily palpable landmarks can help locate the artery?

Answer 6

FCR tendon

Question 7

Why is brachioradialis know as a BReak Rule muscle

Answer 7

It crosses the elbow joint that sits on the lateral border of the flexor region but it is an extensror.