Anaesthesia Fundamentals | Anatomy | Antecubital Fossa

Antecubital Fossa
Session Overview
Description
This session describes the surface anatomy, boundaries and superficial/deep structures in the antecubital fossa. It describes the variations in venous and arterial vasculature in the region and clinical importance to the anaesthetist of this fossa.

Learning Objectives
By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Identify the surface anatomy of the antecubital fossa
• Describe the boundaries, roof, floor and important contents of the fossa
• Describe the relations of the median nerve
• Describe the important variations in the venous vasculature
• Recognize the clinical applications of the anatomical knowledge of this region

Prerequisites
Before commencing this session you should understand:

• Blood supply of the hand
• Brachial plexus, nerve supply to the arm and hand

As anaesthetists, we frequently find ourselves looking at the antecubital fossa of our patients. Until recently, we would palpate and auscultate the brachial artery in this region to measure blood pressure using a sphygmomanometer. Now we most commonly use the region for venepuncture, establishing venous access and to cannulate the brachial artery.

It is essential to have an in-depth understanding of the inter-relationship of the various anatomical structures in the fossa in order to achieve the above and, more importantly, to avoid damage to neighbouring structures.