Lateral malleolus
Malleolus lateralis
Definition
The lower extremity of the fibula, known as the lateral malleolus, exhibits an anteroposterior expansion and a flattened side-to-side shape. It is situated on the outer side of the ankle.
Its lateral surface faces outwards and is easily palpable due to its subcutaneous nature.
The front surface is rough and rounded, providing attachment for the anterior talofibular ligament.
The medial surface faces inward toward the tibia and talus. It features an anterior articular facet that articulates with the talus, contributing to the formation of the ankle joint. Posterior to the articular facet, there is a deeper depression called the malleolar fossa, which serves as the attachment site for the posterior talofibular ligament below and the inferior transverse tibiofibular ligament above.
The back surface is characterized by a groove that accommodates the tendons of the peroneus longus and peroneus brevis muscles.
The lower end extends downward and is marked by the attachment of the calcaneofibular ligament.
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Text written by Muhammad A. Javaid, MD, PhD © 2023 IMAIOS.
Standring, S. and Gray, H. (2016). ‘Chapter 80: Pelvic girdle, gluteal region and thigh’ in Gray’s anatomy The anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. (41st ed.) New York: Elsevier, pp. 1405-1406.
