Olecranon fossa

Olecranon Fossa

The Olecranon Fossa is a deep triangular depression located on the humerus, the long bone of the upper arm or forelimb forming joints at the shoulder and the elbow. It is situated on the posterior aspect of the distal end of the humerus, the bone of the upper arm or forelimb.

Etymology

The term "Olecranon" is derived from the Greek words "olekranon" which means "the tip of the elbow". "Fossa", on the other hand, is a Latin term which means "ditch" or "trench".

Anatomy

The olecranon fossa is the large, deep depression on the posterior side of the humerus, just above the trochlea. It is located to allow the olecranon process of the ulna to insert when the elbow is extended, allowing for the full extension of the arm.

The olecranon fossa is bordered by the medial epicondyle and the lateral epicondyle of the humerus, which are bony protrusions on either side of the humerus bone. These epicondyles serve as attachment points for the muscles and ligaments that control the movement of the forearm.

Clinical Significance

The olecranon fossa is clinically significant as it can be involved in certain medical conditions and procedures. For instance, it can be affected by rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect various joints in the body, including the elbow.

In addition, the olecranon fossa can be involved in surgical procedures such as the elbow arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgery used to diagnose and treat problems in the elbow joint.

Related Terms

• Humerus: The long bone in the upper arm or forelimb that runs from the shoulder to the elbow.
• Ulna: One of the two long bones in the forearm, the other being the radius.
• Trochlea: A structure in the lower part of the humerus that articulates with the ulna.
• Medial Epicondyle: A bony protrusion on the inner side of the humerus.
• Lateral Epicondyle: A bony protrusion on the outer side of the humerus.

Olecranon fossa Resources
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