Anterior superior iliac spine

Anterior Superior Iliac Spine (ASIS) is a bony projection of the ilium and an important anatomical landmark in the human body. It is located at the anterior end of the iliac crest in the pelvis, and it is easily palpable in most individuals.

Anatomy

The ASIS is the most anterior point of the iliac crest and provides attachment for several muscles, including the sartorius, tensor fasciae latae, and the inguinal ligament. It is also a landmark for the McBurney's point, which is a point on the surface of the abdomen corresponding to the base of the appendix.

Clinical Significance

The ASIS is a significant landmark in clinical medicine. It is used as a reference point in various surgical procedures and medical examinations. For instance, a line drawn from the ASIS to the umbilicus is used to locate McBurney's point, the point of maximum tenderness in acute appendicitis.

In orthopedics, the level of the ASIS is used to assess leg length discrepancy. A difference in the level of the ASIS on each side may indicate a difference in leg length or a pelvic tilt.

In sports medicine, avulsion fractures of the ASIS are a common injury, particularly in young athletes. This occurs when a sudden forceful contraction of the attached muscle pulls a fragment of bone away from the ASIS.

See Also

• Ilium (bone)
• Sartorius muscle
• Tensor fasciae latae muscle
• Inguinal ligament
• McBurney's point
• Appendicitis