[Membrana interossea antebrachii--a common ligament of the radius-ulna joint. I: Macroscopic structure]

In 64 cadaveric forearm-specimens of different donorage the membrana interossea antebrachii was investigated macroscopically. The extension of the membrana interossea at the forearm was measured as well as its thickness. The direction of its fibers was also determinated in its different sections and prevalent fibrous structures reinforcing the membrana interossea were investigated. The results characterize the membrana interossea in its middle and proximal section as a taut, strong ligament, which stabilizes the forearm and coordinates pronation and supination in both radioulnar joints.