The interosseous membrane of the leg is a strong fibrous sheet stretched between the interosseous borders of the tibia and fibula, with most fibres running downward and laterally from tibia to fibula. It separates the anterior compartment from the deep posterior compartment and gives origin to muscles of both. An opening near its upper end transmits the anterior tibial vessels, and distally it continues into the interosseous ligament of the tibiofibular syndesmosis.
| Origin | Interosseous border of the tibia |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Interosseous border of the fibula, the dense fibrous membrane between the two leg bones |
| Actions |
|
|---|
Binds the tibia and fibula together, transmits load between them and provides attachment for leg muscles.
The membrane is torn in Maisonneuve injuries, where an external rotation force fractures the proximal fibula and the tear runs down to a disrupted ankle syndesmosis; the ankle mortise is unstable despite no distal fibular fracture and needs syndesmotic fixation. It also forms part of the walls of the anterior and deep posterior compartments, so it is relevant to compartment syndrome. In four-compartment fasciotomy each compartment's fascia, including the deep posterior compartment, must be released.
Proximal fibular fracture with interosseous membrane and syndesmosis tear producing an unstable ankle mortise, treated with syndesmotic screw or suture button fixation.
Raised pressure in the compartments the membrane helps enclose, usually after fracture or crush injury, treated by urgent four-compartment fasciotomy.
This website uses cookies to enhance your experience. Some are essential for site functionality, while others help us analyze and improve your usage experience. Please review your options and make your choice.
If you are under 16 years old, please ensure that you have received consent from your parent or guardian for any non-essential cookies.
Your privacy is important to us. You can adjust your cookie settings at any time. For more information about how we use data, please read our privacy policy. You may change your preferences at any time by clicking on the settings button below.
Note that if you choose to disable some types of cookies, it may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
Some required resources have been blocked, which can affect third-party services and may cause the site to not function properly.
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and ensure the site functions properly. By continuing to use this site, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies.
