Iliac fossa

Definition

The iliac fossa is a large, smooth, concave surface on the internal side of the ilium, one of the bones that forms the pelvis. It serves as an attachment site for the iliacus muscle, which plays a crucial role in hip flexion and movement.

Related terms

Ilium:

The uppermost and largest part of the hip bone, contributing significantly to the structure of the pelvis.

Iliacus muscle: A flat, triangular muscle that originates in the iliac fossa and is involved in flexing and rotating the thigh at the hip joint.

Pelvis:

A bony structure located in the lower part of the torso, composed of several bones including two hip bones (ilium included), sacrum, and coccyx, providing support for spinal column and organs of lower abdomen