The clavipectoral triangle (also known as the deltopectoral triangle) is an anatomical region found in humans and other animals. It is bordered by the following structures:
* Clavicle (superiorly)
* Lateral border of
Pectoralis Major (medially)
* Medial border of
Deltoid muscle
The deltoid muscle is the muscle forming the rounded contour of the shoulder, human shoulder. It is also known as the 'common shoulder muscle', particularly in other animals such as the domestic cat. Anatomically, the deltoid muscle is made up o ...
(laterally)
It contains the
cephalic vein
In human anatomy, the cephalic vein (also called the antecubital vein) is a superficial vein in the arm. It is the longest vein of the upper limb. It starts at the anatomical snuffbox from the radial end of the dorsal venous network of hand, a ...
, and deltopectoral fascia, which is a layer of deep fascia that invests the three structures that make up the border of the triangle. The deltoid branch of the
thoracoacromial artery also passes through this triangle, giving branches to both the deltoid and pectoralis major muscles.
The
subclavian vein
The subclavian vein is a paired large vein, one on either side of the body, that is responsible for draining blood from the upper extremities, allowing this blood to return to the heart. The left subclavian vein plays a key role in the absorption ...
and the
subclavian artery
In human anatomy, the subclavian arteries are paired major arteries of the upper thorax, below the clavicle. They receive blood from the aortic arch. The left subclavian artery supplies blood to the left arm and the right subclavian artery suppli ...
may be accessed via this triangle, as they are deep to it.
Clinical significance
* Palpation of coracoid process of scapula
The coracoid process of the scapula is not subcutaneous; It is covered by the anterior border of the deltoid. However, the tip of the coracoid process can be felt on deep palpation on the lateral aspect of the clavipectoral triangle. The coracoid process is used as a bony landmark when performing a brachial plexus block. Position of coracoid process is significant for diagnosing dislocations as well.
See also
*
Deltopectoral groove
References
External links
* - "Pectoral Region: Deltopectoral Triangle"
{{DEFAULTSORT:Clavipectoral Triangle
Upper limb anatomy