Tendon of gluteus medius muscle

The fibers of the gluteus medius muscle converge to a strong flattened tendon (Tendon of gluteus medius muscle), which is inserted into the oblique ridge which runs downward and forward on the lateral surface of the greater trochanter. A bursa (trochanteric bursae of gluteus medius muscle) separates the tendon of the muscle from the surface of the trochanter over which it glides.

The tendon of the gluteus medius on MRI can be divided into distinct parts based on its anatomical insertion sites and structure. The gluteus medius tendon has two primary parts: the posterior part and the anterolateral part.

1. Posterior Part: This part of the tendon is thicker and runs in a fan-like shape, converging onto the superoposterior facet of the greater trochanter. It is generally more robust and less prone to tears compared to the anterolateral part.[1]

2. Anterolateral Part: This part of the tendon is thinner and runs posteroinferiorly toward the lateral facet of the greater trochanter. Due to its thinner structure, it is more susceptible to tears, particularly in the context of chronic degeneration or trauma.[1]

MRI imaging can clearly delineate these parts, showing the attachment sites on the greater trochanter and any associated pathology such as tendinosis or tears. The posterior part is typically thicker and more resilient, while the anterolateral part is thinner and more prone to injury.[1-2]