Anatomical Areas

Overview

The upper limb contains numerous defined regions that serve as passageways for neurovascular structures and guide clinical examination. This section introduces the major anatomical areas including the axilla, cubital fossa, carpal tunnel and other important spaces that connect different compartments of the limb.

Key Structures

Articles describe the boundaries, contents and surface anatomy of key regions such as the axilla, triangular spaces, cubital fossa, and the anatomical snuffbox. Each topic is supported by diagrams to help learners visualise three-dimensional relationships and understand how these regions link the shoulder, arm, forearm and hand.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

A clear grasp of these anatomical areas is essential for interpreting neurovascular compression, trauma and surgical access routes. Learners can apply this knowledge to procedures such as venepuncture, nerve block placement and examination of peripheral pulses.

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Diagram illustrating the contents of the quadrangular space, highlighting the axillary nerve and posterior circumflex humeral artery.

The Quadrangular Space

Diagram illustrating the borders of the triangular interval.

The Triangular Interval

Diagram illustrating the circumflex scapular artery passing through the triangular space into the posterior scapular region.

The Triangular Space

Transverse section of the axilla region highlighting its borders.

The Axilla Region

Illustration of the cubital fossa, a triangular depression on the anterior elbow.

The Cubital Fossa

The Ulnar Tunnel

Transverse section of the carpal tunnel, illustrating its contents and borders.

The Carpal Tunnel

Diagram illustrating the extensor tendon compartments of the wrist.

The Extensor Tendon Compartments of the Wrist

Illustration of the tendinous borders of the anatomical snuffbox, highlighting key tendons.

The Anatomical Snuffbox

The Ulnar (Guyon’s) Canal

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Diagram illustrating the contents of the quadrangular space, highlighting the axillary nerve and posterior circumflex humeral artery.
Anatomical Areas

The Quadrangular Space

by Dr Oliver Jones

Joints of the Upper Limb

The Sternoclavicular Joint

by Ron Sangal

Diagram illustrating the course and branches of the infraorbital nerve, including the inferior palpebral and superior labial nerves.
Encyclopaedia

Superior Labial Nerve

by Melissa Phu