MCQ – 77032

Which of the following statements regarding the adductor muscles of the thigh is correct?

Correct Answer » D Explanation

The adductor compartment of the thigh consists of:

• Adductor longus
• Adductor brevis
• Adductor magnus
• Gracilis
• Obturator externus

The adductor magnus is unique because it has two anatomically and functionally distinct parts with different nerve supplies and actions.

• Adductor (pubofemoral) part
  • Origin: Inferior ramus of pubis and ramus of ischium
  • Insertion: Gluteal tuberosity, linea aspera, and medial supracondylar line
  • Nerve supply: Posterior division of the obturator nerve (L2–L4)
  • Action: Adduction and flexion of the thigh
• Hamstring (ischial) part
  • Origin: Ischial tuberosity
  • Insertion: Adductor tubercle of the femur
  • Nerve supply: Tibial division of the sciatic nerve (L4)
  • Action: Extension of the thigh

Explanation of Each Option

A. The adductor (pubofemoral) part of the adductor magnus is supplied by the posterior division of the obturator nerve. — Correct

• The adductor part receives motor innervation from the posterior division of the obturator nerve.
• This is a characteristic feature that distinguishes it from the hamstring part.

B. The main arterial supply to the adductor compartment of the thigh is the femoral artery only. — Incorrect

• The principal arterial supply is the profunda femoris (deep femoral) artery, mainly through its perforating branches.
• The femoral artery contributes, but it is not the sole or principal supply.

C. The ischial (hamstring) part of the adductor magnus originates from the adductor tubercle. — Incorrect

• The hamstring part originates from the ischial tuberosity.
• It inserts into the adductor tubercle.

D. The entire adductor magnus is supplied solely by the obturator nerve. — Incorrect

• The adductor part is supplied by the posterior division of the obturator nerve.
• The hamstring part is supplied by the tibial division of the sciatic nerve.