Femur

SkeletalSkeletonLegLeft and right

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What it is

The thigh bone, longest and strongest in the body: a spherical head on an angled neck (≈125°), greater and lesser trochanters, a shaft bowed forward with the linea aspera behind, and two large condyles at the knee.

Function

Carries the body weight from hip to knee and gives leverage to the most powerful muscles of the body.

Size

≈ 44 cm long (≈ ¼ of height); head Ø 48 mm; shaft Ø 27 mm

Clinical note

Hip fractures through the femoral neck are common in older people with osteoporosis and can cut off the blood supply to the head.