Kyynärtaipeen

Kyynärtaipeen, also known as the antecubital fossa, is the anatomical region on the anterior aspect of the elbow. It is a triangular depression formed by the muscles of the upper arm and the epicondyles of the humerus. The boundaries of the kyynärtaipeen are defined by the brachioradialis muscle laterally, the pronator teres muscle medially, and an imaginary line drawn between the two humeral epicondyles superiorly.

This area is clinically significant due to the presence of several important structures. The median cubital vein, often used for venipuncture and intravenous access, runs diagonally across the kyynärtaipeen. The brachial artery, a major artery supplying blood to the forearm and hand, bifurcates into the radial and ulnar arteries within this region. The median nerve, a crucial nerve for motor and sensory function of the forearm and hand, also passes through the kyynärtaipeen.

Due to its superficial location and the presence of major blood vessels and nerves, the kyynärtaipeen is a common site for medical procedures. Besides venipuncture, it can be used for arterial blood gas sampling and the administration of certain medications. The skin in this area is relatively thin and sensitive.