Wing of ilium

Anatomical structure in the human pelvis

The wing of ilium (also known as the ala of ilium) is a broad, flaring portion of the ilium, which is one of the three bones that make up the hip bone or pelvis. The ilium is the uppermost and largest part of the hip bone, and the wing of ilium is a significant anatomical feature that provides attachment points for various muscles and ligaments.

Anatomy

The wing of ilium is a large, fan-shaped structure that extends from the body of the ilium. It has both an external and an internal surface:

• The external surface (also known as the gluteal surface) is convex and provides attachment for the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus muscles. It is marked by three curved lines: the posterior, anterior, and inferior gluteal lines.
• The internal surface (also known as the iliac fossa) is concave and smooth, providing attachment for the iliacus muscle.

Borders

The wing of ilium has three borders:

• The anterior border includes the anterior superior iliac spine and the anterior inferior iliac spine.
• The posterior border includes the posterior superior iliac spine and the posterior inferior iliac spine.
• The superior border (also known as the iliac crest) is the thickened superior margin of the wing of ilium, which serves as an important landmark and attachment site for various muscles and ligaments.

Functions

The wing of ilium plays a crucial role in the structure and function of the pelvis. It provides attachment points for muscles that are involved in movements of the hip and thigh, such as the gluteal muscles and the iliacus muscle. Additionally, the iliac crest serves as an important landmark for medical procedures and anatomical studies.

Clinical Significance

Injuries or conditions affecting the wing of ilium can impact the function of the hip and pelvis. Fractures of the ilium, including the wing, can occur due to trauma and may require medical intervention. Conditions such as iliac crest pain syndrome can also affect this region, causing pain and discomfort.

See Also

• Pelvis
• Hip bone
• Ilium (bone)
• Gluteal muscles
• Iliacus muscle

References

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