Tibiofibular syndesmosis (inferior tibiofibular joint)

Study entry

Classification

Compound fibrous joint: the fibrous union between tibia and fibula by the interosseous membrane (along the shafts) and the anterior, interosseous and posterior tibiofibular ligaments (at the distal ends, forming the inferior tibiofibular joint).

Surfaces

A triangular, rough area on the medial surface of the lower end of the fibula with a small facet on the lower end of the tibia.

Capsule

The interosseous tibiofibular ligament, continuous with the interosseous membrane, is the main connection; it is reinforced in front and behind by the anterior and posterior tibiofibular ligaments. The deep continuation of the posterior one, the transverse (inferior) tibiofibular ligament, connects the malleoli and forms the posterior «wall» of the malleolar mortise. The integrity of the joint is essential for the stability of the ankle, since it holds the lateral malleolus against the talus.

Movements

It moves slightly to accommodate the wide part of the trochlea of the talus between the malleoli in dorsiflexion of the foot.

Blood supply

Perforating branch of the fibular artery and medial malleolar branches of the anterior and posterior tibial arteries.

Innervation

Deep fibular, tibial and saphenous nerves.

Source: cap. 7, «Articulaciones del miembro inferior»: sindesmosis tibiofibular

Other structures in this region

• Interosseous membrane of leg
• Obturator membrane
• Distal intertarsal joints (cuneonavicular, cuboideonavicular, intercuneiform and cuneocuboid)
• Triradiate cartilage of the acetabulum
• Hip joint
• Knee joint
• Superior tibiofibular joint
• Talocrural (ankle) joint