"Anatomical
Snuff Box" - This feature can be seen by abducting the thumb as far
as possible. Such action will produce a small depression at the lateral
aspect of the wrist on its posterior side. On the cadaver, extend
a superficial incision along the lateral edge of the first metacarpal following
the
superficial radial nerve as a guide.
Create a small flap of skin by which to gain access to the area.
This space is formed by the tendinous extensions of the
abductor
pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis,
laterally, and the extensor pollicis longus,
medially. The floor of the snuffbox is formaed by the scaphoid
bone of the wrist. With removal of the superficial fat and
fascia in the space, the passing of the radial artery
in the space can be seen. Reference Netter Plate 436.