FIBULA ANATOMY
Fibula - X-Ray View, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL STRUCTURE
The fibula is a slender bone located on the lateral side of the tibia. Smaller and thinner compared to the tibia, it plays a critical role in forming the ankle joint and provides essential structural support for the leg.
Proximal Epiphysis
- Located at the upper end of the bone
- Connects to the knee joint
- Includes the head of the fibula and key features
Body (Shaft)
- The long, slender part of the bone
- Connects the proximal and distal epiphyses
- Characterized by four distinct borders and surfaces
- Serves as an attachment site for muscles and ligaments
Distal Epiphysis
- Located at the lower part of the bone
- Forms the lateral malleolus
- Connects to the ankle joint
- Articulates with the talus
PROXIMAL EPIPHYSIS OF THE FIBULA
Proximal Epiphysis of the Fibula, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.
The Proximal Epiphysis of the fibula is located at the upper end of the bone, connecting to the knee joint. This irregular and flattened structure articulates with the posterior aspect of the lateral condyle of the tibia. It includes the head of the fibula and other key features, contributing to joint stability and movement.
Head of the Fibula
- Irregularly shaped with a quadrate form
- Flattened articular surface
- Essential for articulation with the tibia
- Key attachment point for ligaments stabilizing the lower leg
Articular Facet
- Located on the superior surface of the fibular head
- Connects with the lateral condyle of the tibia
- Forms the superior tibiofibular joint
- Important for stability and smooth movement of the lower leg
Apex of the Fibula's Head (Styloid Process)
- Prominent bony projection
- Anchor point for:
- Biceps femoris tendon
- Fibular collateral ligament
- Essential for knee and leg stability
Neck of the Fibula
- Narrow, slender region below the head
- Passageway for the common peroneal nerve
- Important for lower leg function
DISTAL EPIPHYSIS OF THE FIBULA
Distal Epiphysis of the Fibula, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.
The Distal Epiphysis of the fibula is located at the lower part of the bone, forming its lower end. It connects to the ankle joint, articulates with the talus, and is essential for maintaining the stability of the ankle joint.
Lateral Malleolus
- Lower end of the fibula
- Pyramidal shape, slightly flattened from side to side
- Forms the outer part of the ankle joint
- Provides lateral stability to the ankle
- Important attachment point for ligaments
Articular Facet of the Lateral Malleolus
- Smooth, triangular surface located on the lateral malleolus
- Convex from top to bottom
- Articulates with the talus
- Allows smooth movement and stability of the ankle joint
Malleolar Fossa
- Rough depression behind and distal to the articular surface of the lateral malleolus
- Attachment site for a ligament
- Essential for stabilizing the ankle
Malleolar Groove
- Shallow vertical groove on the posterior border of the lateral malleolus
- Pathway for tendons
- Facilitates movement of muscles controlling the foot and ankle
BODY (SHAFT) OF THE FIBULA
Body of the Fibula, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.
The body, or shaft, of the fibula is the long, slender part of the bone that connects the proximal and distal epiphyses. It is the largest section of the fibula, characterized by four distinct borders and surfaces. This structure serves as an attachment site for muscles and ligaments, playing a vital role in stabilizing the lower leg.
Lateral Surface
- Lies between the anterior and posterior borders
- Provides attachment points for muscles involved in foot and ankle movements
Anterior Border
- Begins near the head of the fibula
- Runs down the body to the distal end
- Divides the surfaces of the fibula
- Provides attachment sites for muscles
Medial Surface
- Area bordered by the anterior and medial borders
- Attachment site for muscles
- Contributes to leg and foot movements
Anteromedial Surface
- Narrow region between the anterior and medial borders
- Offers additional space for muscle attachment
Interosseous Crest (Medial Border)
- Runs along the medial aspect of the bone
- Attachment site for the interosseous membrane
- Connects the fibula to the tibia
- Aids in lower leg stability
Posteromedial Surface
- Located between the medial and posterior borders
- Important for muscle attachment
- Helps define the overall structure of the fibula
Medial Border
- Also referred to as the interosseous crest
- Runs along the length of the fibula
- Provides an attachment site for the interosseous membrane
- Connects the tibia and fibula
Posterior Surface
- Located between the posteromedial and posterolateral borders
- Features an oblique line dividing it
- Serves as the origin point for several muscles involved in leg and foot movements
Posterior Border
- Rounded shape
- Merges at its lower end with the groove on the lateral malleolus
- Contributes to ankle stability and function
BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. Henry G, Warren HL. Osteology. In: Anatomy of the Human Body. 20th ed. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger; 1918. p. 129–97.