trochanteric

Trochanteric is an anatomical term relating to the trochanters, the prominent projections on the proximal femur near the hip joint. The term is used to describe structures, regions, and conditions associated with these bony landmarks.

Anatomy: The proximal femur features two main trochanters: the greater trochanter, a large lateral projection, and the lesser trochanter, a smaller posteromedial projection. The intertrochanteric region lies between them and is bordered by the intertrochanteric line and crest. The greater trochanter serves as the attachment site for several hip abductors and external rotators, including the gluteus medius and minimus; the iliopsoas tendon attaches to the lesser trochanter. The trochanteric area is a locus for muscle, tendon, and bursal relations surrounding the hip joint.

Clinical significance: The term appears in conditions such as trochanteric bursitis, part of the broader trochanteric pain syndrome, which presents as lateral hip pain often worsened by lying on the affected side or during movement. Fractures around the trochanter region include intertrochanteric fractures, occurring between the greater and lesser trochanters and common in older adults after falls; these fractures frequently require surgical fixation. Other disorders affecting the trochanteric area include tendinopathies and impingement in athletes.

Diagnosis and treatment: Evaluation relies on clinical examination and imaging. Plain radiographs of the hip or pelvis commonly identify intertrochanteric fractures; MRI or CT can be used for occult fractures or soft tissue conditions. Trochanteric bursitis is typically managed with rest, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections when symptoms persist. Intertrochanteric fractures usually require surgical fixation with plates and screws or intramedullary devices, followed by rehabilitation to restore hip strength and mobility.

See also: femur, hip joint, trochanter.