Clavipectoral triangle

Clavipectoral Triangle (also known as Moynihan's triangle or subclavian triangle) is a small anatomical region of the upper chest. It is one of the four infraclavicular (below the clavicle) triangles.

Etymology

The term "clavipectoral" is derived from the Latin words "clavis" meaning key and "pectus" meaning chest. This is in reference to the triangle's location below the clavicle (key) and above the pectoralis major muscle (chest). The term "Moynihan's triangle" is named after the British surgeon, Berkeley Moynihan, who first described it.

Anatomy

The clavipectoral triangle is bounded by:

• Superiorly: The inferior border of the clavicle
• Medially: The lateral border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle
• Laterally: The medial border of the deltoid muscle

The floor of the triangle is formed by the pectoralis major muscle and the subclavius muscle. The roof is formed by the platysma muscle and the deep cervical fascia.

Contents

The clavipectoral triangle contains the following structures:

• The cephalic vein
• The thoracoacromial artery
• The lateral pectoral nerve
• Lymph nodes and fat

Clinical Significance

The clavipectoral triangle is an important landmark in surgical procedures involving the upper chest and shoulder. It is also used as a reference point in the diagnosis of certain medical conditions.

See Also

• Infraclavicular fossa
• Pectoralis major muscle
• Subclavius muscle

References

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