Acetabulum

Pelvic girdle illustration

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Acetabulum (model)

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Ornithischia pelvis structure.svg

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Iliopectineal line, ilioischial line, tear drop, acetabular fossa, and anterior and posterior wall of the acetabulumi.jpg

Acetabulum

The acetabulum is a concave surface of the pelvis that forms the socket of the hip joint. The head of the femur meets with the acetabulum to form the hip joint. The acetabulum is a critical structure in the anatomy of the hip, providing stability and support for the lower body.

Anatomy

The acetabulum is formed by the fusion of three bones: the ilium, the ischium, and the pubis. These bones converge to create a deep, cup-shaped cavity that accommodates the head of the femur. The acetabulum is lined with a layer of articular cartilage, which helps to reduce friction and absorb shock during movement.

Acetabular Labrum

Surrounding the rim of the acetabulum is the acetabular labrum, a ring of cartilage that deepens the socket and enhances the stability of the hip joint. The labrum also helps to seal the joint, maintaining the pressure of the synovial fluid within the joint capsule.

Blood Supply

The blood supply to the acetabulum is primarily provided by branches of the obturator artery, the superior gluteal artery, and the inferior gluteal artery. These arteries ensure that the acetabulum receives adequate nutrients and oxygen to maintain its function and health.

Function

The primary function of the acetabulum is to serve as the socket for the head of the femur, forming the hip joint. This joint is a ball-and-socket joint, which allows for a wide range of motion, including flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation. The acetabulum plays a crucial role in weight-bearing and locomotion, providing stability and support for the body during activities such as walking, running, and jumping.

Clinical Significance

Injuries or conditions affecting the acetabulum can significantly impact the function of the hip joint. Common issues include acetabular fractures, hip dysplasia, and osteoarthritis. Treatment for acetabular conditions may involve physical therapy, medication, or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.

Acetabular Fractures

Acetabular fractures are serious injuries that often result from high-impact trauma, such as car accidents or falls. These fractures can disrupt the stability of the hip joint and may require surgical intervention to repair.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a condition where the acetabulum is shallow or improperly formed, leading to instability and an increased risk of dislocation. This condition is often congenital and may be diagnosed in infancy or early childhood.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis of the hip is a degenerative condition that affects the articular cartilage of the acetabulum and the head of the femur. This condition can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the hip joint.

See Also

• Hip joint
• Femur
• Pelvis
• Articular cartilage
• Acetabular labrum