Pes anserinus

UPDATED: [Pes anserinus] is the name given to a tri-flanged structure formed by the attachment of the flattened tendons of three muscles to the anteromedial surface of the superior aspect of the shaft of the tibia. The tendons correspond to the sartorius, the gracilis, and the semitendinosus muscles. The pes anserinus is related superficially to the the tibial insertion of the medial collateral ligament of the knee. 

There is a bursa deep to these tendons, the [bursa anserinus], which can be the cause of painful bursitis.

The term [pes anserinus] literally means “goose foot”, as early anatomists compared this structure to the foot of this bird. In Latin [pes] means “foot”, and [anserinus] or [anser] means “goose”.

Pes anserinus. Image courtesy of Primal Pictures
For other anatomical structures whose names are related to birds, click here.

Thanks to Jackie Miranda-Klein for suggesting this post. Jackie is studying for the Physician Assistant Master's degree at Kettering College. Dr. Miranda.

Image modified from the original: "3D Human Anatomy: Regional Edition DVD-ROM." Courtesy of Primal Pictures

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