The
linea aspera (
L. rough line) is a ridge of roughened surface on the posterior aspect of the
femur, to which are attached
muscles and intermuscular
septum.
Its margins diverge above and below.
The linea aspera is a prominent longitudinal ridge or crest, on the middle third of the bone, presenting a medial and a lateral lip, and a narrow rough, intermediate line. It is an important insertion point for the adductors and the intermuscular septa that divides the thigh into three compartments. The tension generated by muscle attached to the bones is responsible for the formation of the ridges.
Above, the linea aspera is prolonged by three ridges.
