The term "coronoid fossa" refers to a small depression located on the anterior surface of the humerus bone in the upper arm. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /kɒrənɔɪd ˈfɒsə/. The first syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound "o" as in "hot," followed by a short "i" sound, and stress on the second syllable. The second word, "fossa," is pronounced with a short "o" sound followed by a long "a" sound and stress on the first syllable.
The coronoid fossa is a term primarily used in human anatomy to describe a small, concave depression or hollow located on the anterior portion of the humerus bone, specifically within the distal end of the upper arm. It is found in the region of the elbow joint and is situated just above the trochlea, a structure involved in articulating with the ulna bone in the forearm.
This anatomical feature is named after its resemblance to a beak, as the term "coronoid" is derived from the Greek word "korone," meaning "crow" or "raven." The word "fossa" denotes a shallow depression or groove. As such, the coronoid fossa can be thought of as a narrow, beak-like indention in the humerus bone.
The primary function of the coronoid fossa is to serve as a space for the coronoid process, a bony projection on the ulna bone, to fit into when the forearm is flexed at the elbow joint. This allows for smooth movement and stabilization of the joint during this particular motion. Additionally, the fossa helps to prevent the ulna bone from impinging or compressing against the humerus bone during flexion of the forearm.
Understanding the anatomical structure and function of the coronoid fossa is crucial for healthcare professionals, particularly those involved in orthopedics, as it provides essential knowledge for diagnosing and treating elbow-related conditions or injuries.
Fossa coronoidea.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "coronoid fossa" is composed of two main parts: "coronoid" and "fossa".
1. Coronoid: The word "coronoid" is derived from the Greek word "korōnē", meaning "crow's beak" or "a curved shape resembling a crow's beak". In anatomy, the term "coronoid" is used to describe a structure that has a beak-like shape. It can refer to various anatomical features in different parts of the body.
2. Fossa: "Fossa" comes from the Latin word "fossa", which means "ditch" or "trench". In anatomy, a "fossa" refers to a shallow depression or hollow area in bone or tissue.