Overview
The fibula is the lateral bone of the leg. It is slender and runs the whole length of the tibia, separated from it by the interosseous space. It carries virtually no weight; its role is to give attachment to muscles and ligaments and to stabilise the tarsal joint laterally.
Key features
- Head (caput fibulae): the proximal end, articulates with the lateral condyle of the tibia; the lateral collateral ligament of the stifle inserts on it.
- Body: thin, joined to the tibia by the interosseous membrane.
- Lateral malleolus (malleolus lateralis): the distal end, palpable on the lateral side of the tarsus; it articulates with the talus and gives origin to the lateral collateral ligament of the tarsus.
- Muscles: the fibular (peroneal) muscles and the lateral digital extensor arise from it.
Clinical relevance
- Fractures: usually accompany tibial fractures; an isolated fibular fracture rarely needs treatment.
- Lateral malleolus: its fractures or rupture of the lateral collateral ligament destabilise the tarsus and need repair.
- Common fibular nerve: crosses the lateral surface superficially near the head of the fibula and can be injured by trauma or compression.