Olecranon fossa
Fossa olecrani
Definition
The olecranon fossa is a deep cavity located on the caudal aspect of the distal humerus that functions primarily to receive the anconeal process of the ulna during elbow extension. This articulation provides essential skeletal stability to the elbow by restricting movement to the sagittal plane and preventing lateral or medial luxation.
Variation:
In the dog, the bottom of the olecranon fossa presents an opening forming the supratrochlear foramen.
References
International Committee on Veterinary Gross Anatomical Nomenclature. 2017. Nomina Anatomica Veterinaria. Sixth Edition. Ghent (Belgium).
Barone R. Anatomie comparée des mammifères domestiques, Tome 1, Ostéologie, 5th edition, Vigot, Paris, 2017.
