Linea aspera

Linea Aspera

The Linea Aspera is a prominent longitudinal ridge or crest, on the middle third of the bone presenting a medial and a lateral lip, and a narrow rough, intermediate line. It is an anatomical structure found on the posterior aspect of the Femur.

Anatomy

The Linea Aspera is a ridge of roughened surface on the posterior aspect of the Femur, to which are attached muscles and intermuscular septum. Its margins diverge above and below. The linea aspera is a prominent feature of the femur and it serves for the attachment of multiple muscles.

Upper Part

The upper part of the linea aspera gives attachment to the Gluteus Maximus and Vastus Lateralis on the lateral lip, and the Adductor Magnus and Vastus Medialis on the medial lip.

Lower Part

The lower part of the linea aspera gives attachment to the Adductor Magnus on the medial lip, and the Short Head of the Biceps Femoris and Lateral Intermuscular Septum on the lateral lip.

Clinical Significance

The Linea Aspera is used as a landmark in orthopedic surgery, particularly in procedures involving the femur. It is also used in anthropological analyses to investigate sex differences, health, and lifestyle in past populations.

See Also

• Femur
• Gluteus Maximus
• Vastus Lateralis
• Adductor Magnus
• Vastus Medialis
• Short Head of the Biceps Femoris
• Lateral Intermuscular Septum

Linea aspera Resources
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