Obturator groove
Sulcus obturatorius
Definition
The obturator groove, situated on the lower surface of the superior ramus of the pubis, contributes to the upper margin of the obturator foramen.
The obturator foramen is filled by an obturator membrane, which attaches to the margins of the foramen, except in the area of the obturator groove. This absence of the obturator membrane in the groove region creates a pathway known as the obturator canal. Through this canal, the obturator vessels and nerves from the pelvic region can pass through the obturator foramen and enter the medial or adductor compartment of the thigh.
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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. 1342-1343.
Drake, R.L., Vogl, A.W. and Mitchell, A.W.M. (2009). ‘Chapter 5: Pelvis and Perineum’ in Gray’s anatomy for Students. (2nd ed.) Philadelphia PA 19103-2899: Elsevier, pp.423.
Wobser, A.M., Adkins, Z. and Wobser, R.W. Anatomy, Abdomen and Pelvis: Bones (Ilium, Ischium, and Pubis) [Updated 2022 Jul 25]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519524/
