The canine trochanteric fossa: A radiographic and anatomic study

Radiographic features of the region of the trochanteric fossa were evaluate d bilaterally on 175 ventrodorsal radiographs of canine hip joints and find ings were compared to anatomic specimens. The fossa showed a variable radio graphic appearance, which was affected by positioning and anatomic diversit y. On a small number of radiographs (n = 12), the trochanteric fossa was cl early defined as a circular area of radiopacity surrounded by a radiolucent halo. This appearance was significantly influenced by medial rotation of t he femur (P < 0.001). On some anatomic specimens an irregular protuberance representing the site of attachment of the gemelli, internal and external o bturator muscles was seen within the fossa, surrounded by a variable number of small openings, which were thought to be nutrient foramina. Dissection identified a small number of minor branches of the medial circumflex femora l artery entering these.