Anatomical Snuff-Box: Boundaries, Contents & Clinical Anatomy

Anatomical Snuff-Box

Definition: An elongated triangular depression seen on the lateral side of the dorsum of the hand when the thumb is hyperextended.

Boundaries

The box is defined by the tendons of the thumb muscles.

Boundaries and contents of the anatomical snuffbox

1. Anterolaterally

➤ Tendon of Abductor Pollicis Longus.
➤ Tendon of Extensor Pollicis Brevis.

2. Posteromedially

➤ Tendon of Extensor Pollicis Longus.

➜ Floor: Formed by the Scaphoid and Trapezium.
➜ Roof: Formed by skin and superficial fascia.

Structures crossing the roof of anatomical snuffbox

Contents:
★ Radial Artery (deep inside).

Structures crossing the roof

Vein: Cephalic vein (from medial to lateral side).

Nerve: Terminal branches of Superficial Radial Nerve (from lateral to medial side).

📌 Clinical Significance

• Pulse: Pulsations of the Radial artery can be felt here.
• Fracture: Tenderness inside the box indicates a fracture of the Scaphoid bone.
• IV Access: The Cephalic vein at this site is often used for giving intravenous fluids.
• Nerve Roll: Superficial branches of the radial nerve can be rolled over the tendon of extensor pollicis longus.

📚Ref: Vishram Singh - Upper Limb and Thorax