Anatomic Snuffbox

Introduction

Anatomical snuff box (III). Note the scaphoid bone, the wrist joint proximal to the scaphoid, and the midcarpal joint distal to it.

Clinical example of the anatomic snuffbox

Names

• Anatomical snuffbox
• Radial Fossa
• Radial Snuffbox
• Snuffbox
• Snuffbox of the Wrist
• Foveola Radialis
• Radial Fossa of the Wrist

Historical Context

• So-named because it was used to hold ground tobacco (snuff)
• Before it was inhaled via the nose

Description

• Triangular depression found on the dorsolateral hand
• Located at the level of the carpal bones
• Best visualized with thumb in extension

Borders

• Ulnar/medial: Tendon of the extensor pollicis longus
• Radial/lateral: Tendons of the extensor pollicis brevis, abductor pollicis longus
• Proximal: Styloid process of the radius
• Floor: scaphoid, trapezium
• Roof: Skin

Contents

• Radial Artery
• Superficial Branch of the Radial Nerve
• Cephalic Vein

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Clinical Significance

• Scaphoid Fracture
• Thumb CMC Osteoarthritis
• Scapholunate ligament injury
• De Quervain tenosynovitis
• Superficial radial nerve irritation

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See Also

• Wrist Anatomy Main
• Wrist Pain Main
• Physical Exam Wrist

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