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Quadrate Tubercle

tuberculum quadratum

The quadrate tubercle is a small rounded bump on the intertrochanteric crest at the back of the upper femur, a little above the crest's midpoint. The quadratus femoris muscle, a short external rotator of the hip, inserts on and just below it. The tubercle lies between the greater and lesser trochanters.

Anatomical Data

Structure & Landmarks

Articulations	No joint; insertion of quadratus femoris
Landmarks	On the intertrochanteric crest of the femur Insertion of quadratus femoris Between the greater and lesser trochanters
Ossification	Part of the proximal femur; the intertrochanteric region ossifies from the primary shaft centre, between the secondary centres of the greater and lesser trochanters.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The quadrate tubercle is a landmark in the posterior approach to the hip, where quadratus femoris is divided or preserved; the medial circumflex femoral artery, the main blood supply to the femoral head, runs close by deep to this muscle, so careful dissection here protects the femoral head. Ischiofemoral impingement, in which quadratus femoris is pinched between the ischium and lesser trochanter, can cause deep buttock pain.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Ischiofemoral Impingement

Narrowing of the space between the ischial tuberosity and lesser trochanter that squeezes the quadratus femoris, causing buttock pain and MRI oedema in the muscle.

Quadratus Femoris Strain

Tear or strain of the quadratus femoris near its insertion, usually in sport, causing deep posterior hip pain.

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