Nelaton's line

An anatomical line used in hip assessment

Nélaton's line is an important anatomical reference line used in the assessment of the hip joint. It is named after the French surgeon Auguste Nélaton, who first described it. This line is used primarily in the clinical evaluation of hip dislocations and fractures.

Description

Nélaton's line is drawn from the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) to the ischial tuberosity. In a normal hip, the greater trochanter of the femur should lie on or below this line. If the greater trochanter is palpated above Nélaton's line, it may indicate a dislocation of the hip or a fracture of the femoral neck.

Diagram showing the location of Nélaton's line

Clinical Significance

Nélaton's line is particularly useful in the diagnosis of hip dislocations, especially posterior dislocations, which are more common than anterior dislocations. In cases of posterior dislocation, the greater trochanter is displaced superiorly and posteriorly, causing it to lie above Nélaton's line.

In addition to dislocations, Nélaton's line can also be used to assess for fractures of the femoral neck. In such cases, the displacement of the greater trochanter above the line can indicate a fracture.

Assessment Technique

To assess Nélaton's line, the patient is typically positioned supine. The examiner palpates the ASIS and the ischial tuberosity, then visualizes or palpates the line between these two points. The position of the greater trochanter is then assessed in relation to this line.

Limitations

While Nélaton's line is a useful clinical tool, it is not definitive. Other diagnostic methods, such as X-ray or MRI, may be necessary to confirm the presence of a hip dislocation or fracture. Additionally, variations in patient anatomy can affect the accuracy of this assessment.

Related Pages

• Hip dislocation
• Femoral neck fracture
• Greater trochanter
• Anterior superior iliac spine
• Ischial tuberosity