Infraclavicular fossa: Difference between revisions

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'''Infraclavicular fossa''' is an anatomical region located below the [[clavicle]], also known as the collarbone. It is a shallow depression that is visible when the shoulder is abducted. The infraclavicular fossa is bounded by the clavicle superiorly, the [[pectoralis major muscle]] laterally, and the [[sternocleidomastoid muscle]] medially.
== Infraclavicular Fossa ==
 
[[File:Gray1194.png|thumb|right|Illustration of the infraclavicular fossa.]]
 
The '''infraclavicular fossa''' is a notable anatomical feature located in the human body. It is a depression situated below the [[clavicle]], or collarbone, and is an important landmark in the [[thoracic region]]. This fossa is clinically significant as it serves as a site for various medical procedures and is a key area for the assessment of certain medical conditions.


== Anatomy ==
== Anatomy ==


The infraclavicular fossa is a part of the [[anterior chest wall]]. It is a triangular region that is located below the clavicle. The base of the triangle is formed by the lower border of the clavicle, and the apex is at the junction of the [[sternum]] and the [[costal cartilages]] of the first rib.
The infraclavicular fossa is bordered superiorly by the clavicle, medially by the lateral border of the [[sternum]], and laterally by the anterior border of the [[deltoid muscle]]. The floor of the fossa is formed by the [[pectoralis major muscle]].
 
=== Contents ===
 
The infraclavicular fossa contains several important anatomical structures, including:


The infraclavicular fossa contains several important structures, including the [[subclavian vein]], the [[subclavian artery]], and the [[brachial plexus]]. These structures are protected by the clavicle and the overlying muscles and skin.
* The [[cephalic vein]], which is a superficial vein of the upper limb that drains into the [[axillary vein]].
* The [[thoracoacromial artery]], which branches from the [[axillary artery]] and supplies blood to the pectoral region.
* The [[lateral pectoral nerve]], which innervates the pectoralis major muscle.


== Clinical significance ==
== Clinical Significance ==


Due to the presence of major blood vessels and nerves, the infraclavicular fossa is a common site for medical procedures such as [[central venous catheterization]] and [[nerve block]]s. It is also a common site for the placement of [[pacemaker]]s and [[implantable cardioverter-defibrillators]].
The infraclavicular fossa is often used as a site for the insertion of central venous catheters, particularly the [[subclavian vein]] catheterization. This procedure is performed to gain central venous access for the administration of medications, fluids, or for hemodynamic monitoring.


== See also ==
Additionally, the infraclavicular fossa is examined during physical assessments to detect abnormalities such as swelling, tenderness, or the presence of masses, which may indicate underlying conditions such as [[lymphadenopathy]] or [[tumors]].
 
== Related Pages ==


* [[Clavicle]]
* [[Clavicle]]
* [[Pectoralis major muscle]]
* [[Pectoralis major muscle]]
* [[Sternocleidomastoid muscle]]
* [[Axillary artery]]
* [[Subclavian vein]]
* [[Cephalic vein]]
* [[Subclavian artery]]
* [[Brachial plexus]]
 
[[Category:Anatomy]]
[[Category:Thorax]]


{{anatomy-stub}}
[[Category:Anatomy of the upper limb]]

Latest revision as of 11:48, 15 February 2025

Infraclavicular Fossa[edit]

Illustration of the infraclavicular fossa.

The infraclavicular fossa is a notable anatomical feature located in the human body. It is a depression situated below the clavicle, or collarbone, and is an important landmark in the thoracic region. This fossa is clinically significant as it serves as a site for various medical procedures and is a key area for the assessment of certain medical conditions.

Anatomy[edit]

The infraclavicular fossa is bordered superiorly by the clavicle, medially by the lateral border of the sternum, and laterally by the anterior border of the deltoid muscle. The floor of the fossa is formed by the pectoralis major muscle.

Contents[edit]

The infraclavicular fossa contains several important anatomical structures, including:

Clinical Significance[edit]

The infraclavicular fossa is often used as a site for the insertion of central venous catheters, particularly the subclavian vein catheterization. This procedure is performed to gain central venous access for the administration of medications, fluids, or for hemodynamic monitoring.

Additionally, the infraclavicular fossa is examined during physical assessments to detect abnormalities such as swelling, tenderness, or the presence of masses, which may indicate underlying conditions such as lymphadenopathy or tumors.

Related Pages[edit]