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Home › Body Atlas › Muscles › External Oblique Detail
Muscle Abdomen

External Oblique Detail

musculus obliquus externus abdominis detail

The outermost flat abdominal muscle with fibres running inferomedially. Its lower edge forms the inguinal ligament between ASIS and pubic tubercle.

An expanded entry for External Oblique.

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

OriginOuter surfaces of ribs 5-12 via muscular digitations
InsertionAnterior iliac crest, inguinal ligament, anterior rectus sheath, linea alba
Nerve SupplyVentral rami of T5-T12 and iliohypogastric nerve (L1)
Blood SupplyLower posterior intercostal arteries
Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Actions
  • Bilateral: trunk flexion and intra-abdominal pressure
  • Unilateral: same-side lateral flexion and contralateral rotation

Acting on one side it rotates the trunk to the opposite side and bends it sideways; acting together they flex the trunk and compress the abdomen.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The external oblique aponeurosis is the surgical landmark for inguinal hernia repair. The external ring is a split in the aponeurosis. In component separation, the external oblique aponeurosis is released to allow medial rectus advancement.

Palpation

The lateral abdominal bulk, palpated during resisted contralateral trunk rotation.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

External Oblique Release in Component Separation

Division of the external oblique aponeurosis allowing 5-10 cm of medial rectus advancement for large ventral hernia closure.

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