Fibula Flashcards
Where is the fibula found?
Laterally to the tibia
How does the fibula differ from the tibia?
It’s much thinner
What is the main function of the fibula?
To act as an attachment for the muscles
Why is the main function of the fibula not as a weight bearer?
Because it doesn’t articulate with the femur at the knee
What does the fibula have at the proximal end?
An enlarged head
What does the head of the fibula contain?
A facet for articulation with the lateral condyle of the tibia
Where can the common fibular nerve be found?
On the posterior and lateral surface of the fibular neck
What does the fibular shaft have?
Three surfaces- the anterior, lateral and posterior
What is the leg split into?
Three compartment
What does each surface of the fibular shaft face?
Its respective compartment, e.g. the anterior surface faces the anterior compartment of the leg
What happens to the lateral surface?
In continues inferiorly, and is called the lateral malleolus
How does the lateral malleolus differ from the medial malleolus?
It is more prominent
Where can the lateral malleolus be palpated?
At the ankle on the lateral side of the leg
What part of the fibula is prone to fracture?
The lateral malleolus
What are the main mechanisms of lateral malleolus fracture?
By forced external rotation of the ankle
The foot being twisted outwards
How does forced external rotation of the ankle cause a lateral malleolus fracture?
The force of the talus against the bone causes a spiral fracture of the lateral malleolus
What is it called when the foot is twisted outwards?
Eversion
How does eversion cause a fracture of the lateral malleolus?
The talus presses against the lateral malleolus, which causes a transverse fracture
