Adductor brevis
Musculus adductor brevis
A short triangular adductor lying behind pectineus and adductor longus. The anterior and posterior divisions of the obturator nerve pass in front of and behind it.
Overview
Adductor brevis arises from the body and inferior ramus of the pubis and inserts on the pectineal line and the upper part of the linea aspera. It forms the middle layer of the adductor group. It is a useful landmark because the anterior division of the obturator nerve descends on its anterior surface and the posterior division descends behind it, on adductor magnus. It adducts the thigh and assists flexion.
Anatomy
- Origin
Body and inferior ramus of the pubis.
- Insertion
Pectineal line and the proximal part of the linea aspera.
- Action
Adduction and some flexion of the thigh.
- Innervation
Obturator nerve (anterior division).
- Nerve roots
L2–L4
- Arterial supply
Profunda femoris, medial circumflex femoral and obturator arteries.
- Relations
In front: pectineus, adductor longus and the anterior division of the obturator nerve. Behind: adductor magnus and the posterior division of the obturator nerve.
Function
- Adducts the thigh
- Assists hip flexion
Compiled from standard anatomy and physiology references — see the Muscular System sources. For education only; not medical advice.