vastus lateralis

lateralis

The Vastus lateralis (Vastus externus) is the largest part of the Quadriceps femoris. It arises by a broad aponeurosis, which is attached to the upper part of the intertrochanteric line, to the anterior and inferior borders of the greater trochanter, to the lateral lip of the gluteal tuberosity, and to the upper half of the lateral lip of the linea aspera; this aponeurosis covers the upper three-fourths of the muscle, and from its deep surface many fibers take origin. A few additional fibers arise from the tendon of the Glutæus maximus, and from the lateral intermuscular septum between the Vastus lateralis and short head of the Biceps femoris. The fibers form a large fleshy mass, which is attached to a strong aponeurosis, placed on the deep surface of the lower part of the muscle: this aponeurosis becomes contracted and thickened into a flat tendon inserted into the lateral border of the patella, blending with the Quadriceps femoris tendon, and giving an expansion to the capsule of the knee-joint. [WP,unvetted].

Type Bone
Structure parente Quadriceps femoris
Nom latin lateralis
FMA ID 22431

Questions fréquentes

What is the vastus lateralis?
The vastus lateralis is the largest of the four muscles comprising the quadriceps femoris group, located on the lateral (outer) aspect of the thigh. It is the most powerful contributor to knee extension.
What are the origins and insertion of the vastus lateralis?
The vastus lateralis originates from the intertrochanteric line of the femur, the anterior and inferior borders of the greater trochanter, the gluteal tuberosity, and the linea aspera (lateral lip). It inserts via the quadriceps tendon into the patella and ultimately the tibial tuberosity via the patellar ligament.
What is the primary function of the vastus lateralis?
The vastus lateralis extends the knee joint, acting as the primary extensor of the leg from the knee. It is essential in activities such as walking, running, jumping, and standing up from a seated position.
What nerve innervates the vastus lateralis?
The vastus lateralis is innervated by the femoral nerve (L2, L3, L4), specifically its muscular branches. The femoral nerve enters the thigh through the femoral triangle deep to the inguinal ligament.
What is the clinical significance of the vastus lateralis?
The vastus lateralis is one of the recommended intramuscular injection sites, particularly in infants and young children and in adults when the deltoid or gluteal muscles are unsuitable. It is assessed in physical therapy for quadriceps strengthening after knee surgery.

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Data sources: Terminologia Anatomica, Foundational Model of Anatomy, Wikidata.