Muscle
Pectineus
Short muscle bridging pubis and upper femur
High-yield
Its usual femoral nerve supply distinguishes it from the main obturator-supplied adductors. Some muscles also receive an obturator or accessory obturator contribution, so a rigid compartment rule is incomplete.
Overview
Pectineus forms part of the floor beneath the femoral triangle. It connects the upper pubic ramus to the proximal femur and contributes to both bringing the thigh inward and lifting it forward.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Pecten and adjacent surface of the superior pubic ramus
- Insertion
- Pectineal line on the posterior femur below the lesser trochanter
- Action
- Assists hip adduction and flexion
- Innervation
- Usually femoral nerve, chiefly L2-L3; additional obturator or accessory obturator supply may occur
- Blood supply
- Medial circumflex femoral and obturator arterial branches
Frequently asked questions
What does the pectineus do?
The pectineus assists hip adduction and flexion.
What nerve innervates the pectineus?
Usually femoral nerve, chiefly L2-L3; additional obturator or accessory obturator supply may occur.
Where does the pectineus attach?
The pectineus originates from the pecten and adjacent surface of the superior pubic ramus and inserts on the pectineal line on the posterior femur below the lesser trochanter.
What is the blood supply of the pectineus?
Medial circumflex femoral and obturator arterial branches.