The bicipital aponeurosis (also known as lacertus fibrosus) is a broad
aponeurosis of the
biceps brachii, which is located in the
cubital fossa of the
elbow. It separates superficial from deep structures in much of the fossa.
Some individuals (about 3% of the population) have a superficial ulnar artery that runs superficially to the bicipital aponeurosis instead of underneath it. These individuals are at risk for accidental injury to the ulnar artery during
venipuncture.[5]
Clinical significance
The bicipital aponeurosis is superficial to the brachial artery and the median nerve, but deep to the
median cubital vein. This protection is important during
venipuncture (taking blood).
It is one structure that has to be incised during
fasciotomy in the treatment of acute
compartment syndrome of the forearm and elbow region.