Reading
- p. 724 (Elbow Joint) - 729 (Cubital Fossa)
- p. 800 (Elbow Joint) - 806 (Distal ...)
- p. 478 - 481
Body Surface
The primary surface landmarks of the elbow joint are associated with the humerus (medial and lateral epicondyles), ulna (olecranon), and biceps brachii and triceps brachii tendons. The skin overlying the elbow joint is innervated by the lower lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm, and medial, lateral and posterior cutaneous nerves of the forearm.
Skeleton and Joints
The elbow joint is comprised of the humero-ulnar (trochlea and trochlear notch) and humero-radial (capitulum and radial head) articulations. It is a uniaxial (hinge) joint allowing for flexion and extension of the forearm. The associated proximal (superior) radioulnar (radial head and radial notch) articulation is a uniaxial pivot joint allowing for pronation and supination of the forearm. The elbow joint is surrounded by a fibrous capsule supported by the ulnar and radial collateral ligaments. The capsule also surrounds the proximal radioulnar joint and its supporting (annular) ligament.
Muscles
Muscles of the anterior and posterior compartments of the arm and anterior and posterior compartments of the forearm are active at the elbow joint.
Innervation
The musculocutaneous, radial, median and ulnar nerves innervate the elbow joint.
Blood Supply
The radial collateral, middle collateral, ulnar collaterals, and ulnar and radial recurrent arteries supply the elbow joint.