Anterior superior iliac spine
Anterior Superior Iliac Spine
The Anterior Superior Iliac Spine (pronounced: an-TEER-ee-or soo-PEER-ee-or IL-ee-ak SPINE), often abbreviated as ASIS, is a bony projection of the ilium and an important anatomical landmark in the human body.
Etymology
The term "Anterior Superior Iliac Spine" is derived from Latin and Greek roots. "Anterior" comes from the Latin word 'anterior' meaning 'before' or 'in front of', "Superior" is derived from the Latin word 'superior' meaning 'higher', "Iliac" comes from the Greek word 'ilia' meaning 'flank' or 'loin', and "Spine" is derived from the Latin word 'spina' meaning 'thorn' or 'backbone'.
Anatomy
The ASIS is the anterior end of the iliac crest. It serves as a point of attachment for several muscles, including the sartorius, inguinal ligament, and the tensor fasciae latae. It is easily palpable in most individuals and is a key landmark in various surgical and diagnostic procedures.
Clinical Significance
The ASIS is used as a reference point in the McBurney's Point, which is a point on the abdomen that is one-third of the distance from the ASIS to the umbilicus. This point corresponds to the most common location of the base of the appendix where pain is felt in acute appendicitis.
The ASIS is also used as a landmark for the administration of anesthetic in the lumbar plexus block procedure.
Related Terms
- Ilium
- Sartorius
- Inguinal ligament
- Tensor fasciae latae
- McBurney's Point
- Umbilicus
- Appendix
- Appendicitis
- Lumbar plexus block
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