Coronoid fossa of the humerus

Coronoid Fossa of the Humerus

Anterior view of the humerus showing the coronoid fossa (labelled as coronoid fovea)

The Coronoid Fossa of the Humerus is a specific anatomical feature found on the humerus, the long bone in the upper arm or forelimb that runs from the shoulder to the elbow. It is one of the two depressions that allow the arm to bend and extend by accommodating the bones of the forearm during movement.

Anatomy

The coronoid fossa is located on the anterior, or front, surface of the humerus, just above the trochlea of the humerus. It is a small, shallow depression that is designed to accommodate the coronoid process of the ulna when the elbow is flexed.

File:HumerusAnterior.png

Anterior view of the humerus with the coronoid fossa labelled

Function

The primary function of the coronoid fossa is to allow for full flexion of the elbow joint. When the elbow is bent, the coronoid process of the ulna fits into the coronoid fossa, preventing the two bones from impacting each other. This allows for smooth, pain-free movement of the elbow joint.

Clinical Significance

Injuries or abnormalities of the coronoid fossa can impact the function of the elbow joint. Fractures of the coronoid process can lead to a condition known as "coronoid fossa syndrome," which can cause pain, limited range of motion, and instability in the elbow joint.

See Also

• Humerus
• Elbow joint
• Coronoid process
• Ulna