Hip Bone Showing The Ilium's Supraacetabular Groove, Lateral View

Description

Ilium and acetabulum dominate this lateral view of the os coxae, with the iliac ala (wing) flaring superiorly and the acetabular rim forming a deep cup inferiorly and slightly anteriorly. The supraacetabular groove appears as a shallow depression on the lateral surface of the ilium, positioned immediately superior to the acetabulum and inferior to the broad iliac fossa contours that continue onto the wing. Anteriorly, the area approaches the anterior inferior iliac spine region, while posteriorly it trends toward the thicker bone above the posterior acetabular margin. A small landmark with outsized teaching value. Clinically, the supraacetabular region is a work zone in pelvic and acetabular trauma and reconstruction, where bone stock and surface topography influence fixation strategy and implant placement. Orthopaedic surgeons reference the lateral ilium just superior to the acetabular dome for supra-acetabular external fixation pin corridors, and for orientation during periacetabular osteotomy planning in acetabular dysplasia, where subtle surface cues help maintain safe distance from the joint and avoid intra-articular violation. The fixed lateral perspective clarifies the relationship between the groove and the acetabular roof, a relationship that can be hard to communicate with text alone when discussing “above the socket” in three dimensions. Use this illustration in pelvic anatomy teaching for medical or physical therapy curricula, in orthopaedic lecture slides on acetabular fracture approaches (anterior column versus posterior wall) and fixation landmarks, or in textbook figures explaining iliac surface anatomy relevant to pin placement and acetabular component positioning in total hip arthroplasty. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.