The Anterior Superior Iliac Spine Of The Hip Bone In Lateral View

Description

Rotating through a lateral perspective on the os coxae, the animation centers the anterior superior iliac spine (spina iliaca anterior superior, ASIS) as it projects anteriorly from the anterior end of the iliac crest. The iliac crest sweeps posteriorly and superiorly from the ASIS toward the posterior superior iliac spine, while the broad ala of the ilium forms the lateral wall of the pelvis deep to the crest. As the viewpoint advances, the ASIS reads as a palpable anterior margin landmark overlying the lateral hip, positioned superior to the acetabular region and lateral to the pelvic brim. Clinically, the ASIS is the reference point for multiple surface anatomy measurements and procedural landmarks, including the interspinous line (Tuffier’s line variation) and the ASIS-to-patella axis used when assessing lower-limb rotational alignment. It also anchors the inguinal ligament (to the pubic tubercle) and gives attachment to the sartorius and tensor fasciae latae via the adjacent anterior iliac crest, a relationship that explains the focal tenderness and periosteal stress seen in adolescent apophysitis and in traction injuries during sprinting and kicking. Seeing the bony point remain fixed while the pelvis rotates clarifies why small errors in pelvic tilt or patient positioning can shift ASIS-based palpation targets for anterior approaches to the hip and for physical exam of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve region near the inguinal ligament. Use this asset for musculoskeletal anatomy teaching of the pelvis and hip, sports medicine modules on pelvic apophyseal injuries, and orthopedic content that needs consistent bony landmarks for preoperative planning diagrams, patient education, or physical examination documentation. It also fits radiology instruction when correlating palpated landmarks with CT or MRI reconstructions of the iliac crest and anterior pelvic ring. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.