Upper Limb Flashcards
What is the cubital fossa?
A triangular intermuscular space seen as a shallow surface depression in front of the elbow
It serves as an important area of transition between the arm and forearm.
Where is the cubital fossa located?
Anterior to the elbow joint
What is the shape of the cubital fossa?
Triangular depression on the anterior view of the elbow
What forms the superior boundary of the cubital fossa?
An imaginary horizontal line connecting medial and lateral epicondyles
What muscles form the lateral and medial borders of the cubital fossa?
- Lateral border: Medial border of brachioradialis muscle
- Medial border: Lateral border of pronator teres muscle
What forms the apex of the cubital fossa?
The meeting point of the lateral and medial boundaries, directed inferiorly
What forms the floor of the cubital fossa?
- Brachialis muscle
- Supinator muscle
What structures are found in the roof of the cubital fossa?
- Skin
- Superficial fascia containing:
- Cephalic vein
- Lateral cutaneous nerve of forearm
- Basilic vein
- Medial cutaneous nerve of forearm
- Median cubital vein
- Deep fascia
- Bicipital aponeurosis
What are the main contents of the cubital fossa from lateral to medial?
- Tendon of the biceps brachii muscle
- Brachial artery
- Median nerve
What does the brachial artery bifurcate into?
- Radial artery
- Ulnar artery
True or False: The radial nerve is considered one of the three key contents of the cubital fossa.
False
What is the median cubital vein commonly used for?
Venipuncture
Fill in the blank: The median cubital vein connects the _______ and _______ veins.
cephalic, basilic
What are the common patterns of the median cubital vein?
- H-pattern
- M-pattern
What complications can arise from variations in the median cubital vein during venipuncture?
Complications can include arterial puncture or nerve injury.
What is the clinical significance of the cubital fossa during blood pressure measurements?
The stethoscope is placed over the brachial artery in the cubital fossa.
What condition can result from a supracondylar fracture affecting the cubital fossa?
Volkmann’s ischaemic contracture
What is the importance of pre-operative ultrasound mapping in the context of the cubital fossa?
It clarifies vein location and patency prior to surgical procedures.
How does the cubital fossa relate to intravenous cannulation?
It is preferred for its relative stability and size, though variable anatomy may necessitate using other veins.
What is the role of the bicipital aponeurosis in the cubital fossa?
It protects the more important contents of the fossa.
Fill in the blank: The cubital fossa is formed between the _______ and _______ muscles.
brachioradialis, pronator teres
What veins can exhibit numerous variations in their connections and branching in the cubital fossa?
- Cephalic vein
- Basilic vein
- Median cubital vein
- Median antebrachial vein
Why is awareness of venous variations in the cubital fossa essential for healthcare professionals?
It ensures safe phlebotomy, IV access, and surgical interventions.
