Linea supracondylaris lateralis

Linea supracondylaris lateralis

The Linea supracondylaris lateralis is a bony ridge located on the lateral side of the distal end of the humerus bone. It serves as an important anatomical landmark in the study of human anatomy.

Anatomy

The linea supracondylaris lateralis is a prominent ridge that runs along the lateral aspect of the distal end of the humerus bone. It is located just above the lateral epicondyle, which is another important landmark on the humerus. The ridge is formed by the attachment of various muscles and ligaments, giving it a distinct shape and structure.

Function

The linea supracondylaris lateralis serves as an attachment site for several muscles and ligaments involved in the movement of the forearm and hand. These include the extensor muscles of the forearm, such as the extensor carpi radialis brevis, extensor digitorum, and extensor carpi ulnaris. These muscles play a crucial role in extending the wrist and fingers.

Additionally, the linea supracondylaris lateralis also provides stability to the elbow joint by serving as an attachment site for the lateral collateral ligament. This ligament helps to prevent excessive sideways movement of the elbow joint, ensuring proper alignment and function.

Clinical Significance

The linea supracondylaris lateralis is an important landmark in surgical procedures involving the elbow joint. Surgeons often use this ridge as a reference point for locating and identifying structures during procedures such as elbow arthroscopy or fracture fixation.

Furthermore, the linea supracondylaris lateralis can also be used as a reference point for diagnosing certain conditions. For example, in cases of lateral epicondylitis (also known as tennis elbow), pain and tenderness are often localized around the lateral epicondyle and the adjacent linea supracondylaris lateralis.

See Also

• Humerus
• Lateral epicondyle
• Elbow joint