Anterior inferior iliac spine

Anterior Inferior Iliac Spine (AIIS) is a bony projection on the ilium, one of the bones that make up the human pelvis. It is an important anatomical landmark in the human body and serves as an attachment point for several muscles and ligaments.

Anatomy

The Anterior Inferior Iliac Spine is located on the anterior (front) part of the ilium, near the joint that connects the pelvis to the femur (thigh bone). It is inferior (below) the anterior superior iliac spine, another bony projection on the ilium.

The AIIS is the point of origin for the rectus femoris muscle, one of the four muscles that make up the quadriceps femoris, the large muscle group in the front of the thigh. The AIIS also serves as an attachment point for the iliofemoral ligament, a strong ligament that helps stabilize the hip joint.

Clinical significance

Due to its role as an attachment point for muscles and ligaments, the AIIS can be involved in several medical conditions. For example, avulsion fractures of the AIIS can occur in athletes, particularly those involved in sports that require sudden, forceful movements of the hip and thigh. In addition, inflammation of the AIIS, known as AIIS bursitis, can cause pain and limited mobility in the hip joint.

See also

• Ilium (bone)
• Anterior superior iliac spine
• Hip joint
• Rectus femoris muscle
• Iliofemoral ligament