The Anatomical Snuffbox
The anatomical snuffbox is a triangular depression on the radial aspect of the dorsal hand, visible when the thumb is extended.
Boundaries:
- Lateral Border: Tendons of Abductor Pollicis Longus (APL) and Extensor Pollicis Brevis (EPB).
- Medial Border: Tendon of Extensor Pollicis Longus (EPL).
- Floor: Scaphoid and trapezium bones; radial artery.
| Structure in Floor | Clinical Significance |
|---|---|
| Scaphoid Bone | Tenderness here after a fall on an outstretched hand (FOOSH) is highly suggestive of a scaphoid fracture. |
| Radial Artery | Palpable pulse point; susceptible to injury in fractures. |
High-Yield Clinical Notes:
- Scaphoid Fracture Complications: Risk of avascular necrosis due to retrograde blood supply from the radial artery.
- Radiographic lag: Scaphoid fractures are often not visible on initial X-rays; clinical suspicion requires thumb immobilization and repeat imaging.