Ulnar fossa

Cubital fossa: structure, function and clinical significance

The cubital fossa, also known as the fossa cubitalis, is a depression on the inside of the elbow joint. This anatomical region, located between the shoulder flexor and extensor elbow muscles, plays an important role in the movement of the upper limb and is of great clinical importance.

The structure of the cubital fossa includes many anatomical structures such as tendons, nerves, vessels and muscles. The following elements stand out most clearly:

1. Tendon complex: The antecubital fossa contains the biceps brachii and flexor brachii tendons. These structures play an important role in the flexion and extension of the forearm.

2. Medial Nerve: The medial nerve passes through the cubital fossa and innervates most of the muscles of the anterior surface of the forearm. It is also responsible for innervation of the skin of the lateral side of the hand and fingers.

3. Brachial artery: Branches of the brachial artery pass through the cubital fossa, providing blood supply to the muscles and tissues of the anterior surface of the forearm.

4. Muscles: The antecubital fossa contains several muscles, including the flexor digitorum brevis, flexor digitorum longus, extensor carpi metacarpal radialis, and flexor and extensor brachialis muscles.

It is important to note that the cubital fossa is the site of the medial cubital vein, which is widely used for intravenous catheterization and blood collection for analysis.

The clinical significance of the cubital fossa is that it can be the site of various pathological conditions and injuries. For example, tendinitis and inflammation of the tendons can lead to pain and limited movement in the area. Compression of the medial nerve in the cubital fossa can cause carpal tunnel syndrome and associated symptoms such as numbness and weakness in the arm.

The cubital fossa can also be susceptible to injury, such as elbow fractures or contusions to blood vessels and nerves. In case of such injuries, it is necessary to consult a medical specialist for diagnosis and treatment.

In conclusion, the antecubital fossa is an important anatomical region of the upper extremity. Its structures play an important role in the movement and function of the hand, and can also be the cause of various pathologies and injuries. Understanding the anatomy and function of the cubital fossa is important for diagnosing and treating problems associated with it, as well as for medical procedures involving this area of ​​the upper extremity.