Anatomical Features (Markings) of Bones

These flashcards cover the anatomical features of bones, including definitions and examples of various terms related to bone markings.

Condyle

A rounded knob that articulates with another bone (example: occipital condyles of the skull).

Crest

A narrow ridge (example: iliac crest of the pelvis).

Epicondyle

An expanded region proximal to a condyle (example: medial epicondyle of the femur).

Line

A slightly raised, elongated ridge (example: nuchal lines of the skull).

Process

Any bony prominence (example: mastoid process of the skull).

Protuberance

A bony outgrowth or protruding part (example: mental protuberance of the chin).

Ramus

A branch or arm (example: ramus of mandible).

Spine

A sharp, slender, or narrow process (example: mental spines of the mandible).

Trochanter

Two massive processes unique to the femur.

Tubercle

A small, rounded process (example: greater tubercle of the humerus).

Tuberosity

A rough elevated surface (example: tibial tuberosity).

Alveolus

A pit or socket (example: tooth socket).

Fossa

A shallow, broad, or elongated basin (example: mandibular fossa).

Canal

A tubular passage or tunnel in a bone (example: auditory canal of the skull).

Fissure

A slit through a bone (example: orbital fissures behind the eye).

Foramen

A hole through a bone, usually round (example: foramen magnum of the skull).

Sinus

An air-filled space in a bone (example: frontal sinus of the forehead).