Third trochanter
Trochanter tertius
Definition
The third trochanter is a rounded bony prominence that can occasionally be observed just above the gluteal tuberosity on the posterior aspect of the upper end of the femur.
It should be noted that the gluteal tuberosity is the upward lateral continuation of the linea aspera as it extends toward the greater trochanter of the femur. The gluteal tuberosity, with or without the presence of the third trochanter, serves as the attachment site for the gluteus maximus muscle.
References
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Text written by Muhammad A. Javaid, MD, PhD © 2023 IMAIOS.
Standring, S. and Gray, H. (2016). ‘Chapter 80: Pelvic girdle, gluteal region and thigh’ in Gray’s anatomy The anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. (41st ed.) New York: Elsevier, pp. 1348-1353.
