Cubital Fossa - Clinical Aspects

Clinical Aspects

During blood pressure measurements, the stethoscope is placed over the brachial artery in the cubital fossa. The artery usually runs medial to the bicepital tendon. The brachial pulse may be palpated in the cubital fossa also just medial to the tendon.

The area just superficial to the cubital fossa is often used for venous access (phlebotomy). A number of superficial veins can cross this region. It may also be used for the insertion of a peripherally inserted central catheter.

Historically, when (venous) blood-letting was practiced, the bicipital aponeurosis (the ceiling of the cubital fossa) was known as the "grace of God" tendon because it protected the more important contents of the fossa (i.e. the brachial artery and the median nerve).

Read more about this topic:  Cubital Fossa

Famous quotes containing the word aspects:

    That anger can be expressed through words and non-destructive activities; that promises are intended to be kept; that cleanliness and good eating habits are aspects of self-esteem; that compassion is an attribute to be prized—all these lessons are ones children can learn far more readily through the living example of their parents than they ever can through formal instruction.
    Fred Rogers (20th century)