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What does the anatomical snuff box overly?

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Final answer:

The anatomical snuff box is a small, triangular depression on the hand that overlies the radial artery, scaphoid, and trapezium bones, and is innervated by the radial nerve. It is bounded by the tendons of three thumb extensors and is clinically significant for palpating the radial artery and assessing scaphoid fractures.

Step-by-step explanation:

The anatomical snuff box is a triangular depression on the lateral aspect of the dorsum of the hand, visible when the thumb is extended fully. It is bounded by the tendons of the extensor pollicis brevis and abductor pollicis longus on the lateral side, and the tendon of the extensor pollicis longus on the medial side. The base of the snuff box is formed by the styloid process of the radius, and the floor consists of the scaphoid and trapezium bones. Within this anatomical feature lies the radial artery as it travels towards the deep palmar arch. Additionally, the radial nerve innervates this region, providing sensation to the lateral dorsum of the hand.

The term 'snuff box' derives from the historical use of this area to hold and inhale snuff, a powdered tobacco product. Importantly, due to its contents and clinical relevance, it is a site for palpating the radial artery, and can also be a location where fractures of the scaphoid bone can occur, which may require medical attention.

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