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Definition

noun

(anatomy) The fossa in the anterior of the cubitus, or simply the depression in front of the elbow.

Supplement

It contains the tendon of the biceps, the median nerve and the brachial artery.

It is the region where blood is commonly drawn from since superficial veins cross through it. It is the site where blood pressure is measured. The stethoscope is placed over the brachial artery in the cubital fossa. It is also an area used to palpate for the brachial pulse.

Word origin: cubital » late ME < L cubitālis + fossa » L: ditch, trench, fosse, short for fossa (terra), dug or dug out (earth).

Synonym:

• fossa cubitalis
• chelidon
• triangle of elbow