Definition

By: Gregory R. Waryasz, MD

The anconeus muscle of the musculoskeletal system is characterized by being a small muscle on the posterolateral elbow.

It is part of the arm.  It consists of skeletal muscle fibers.

Its unique structural features include its small and triangular shape.  It can be partially blended with the triceps brachii.

The origin is the lateral epicondyle of the humerus.

The insertion is the lateral surface of the olecranon and the superior portion of the posterior ulna.

The blood supply is from the deep brachial and the recurrent interosseous artery and venous drainage is from the accompanying veins.

The innervation is from the radial nerve.

The anconeus muscle as well as all other bones, muscles, and ligaments of the body are derived of mesodermal origin in the embryo.

The function of the anconeus is to assist the triceps in forearm extension and stabilization of the elbow joint.  The anconeus may help to abduct the ulna during pronation. The synergist of the anconeus is the triceps brachii.  During extension, the anconeus can tense the elbow joint capsule to prevent impingement.

There are no common diseases.

Commonly used diagnostic procedures include clinical history, physical exam, and MRI.

References

Lieberman J (ed), AAOS Comprehensive Orthopaedic Review, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2008.

Moore K, Dalley A (eds), Clinically Oriented Anatomy (5th edition), Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia, PA, 2006.

Wheeless’ Textbook of Orthopaedics: Anconeus (http://www.wheelessonline.com/ortho/anconeus)