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Lateral cuneiform
Other Terms:
Third cuneiform bone,
Lateral cuneiform,
Os cuneiforme laterale,
Cunéiforme latéral
Type
short
Description
This is the second largest of the three cuneiform bones. Like the intermediate cuneiform, the broad base of the wedge-shaped bone faces dorsally. Its lateral and medial surfaces form small articular facets for the cuboid and intermediate cuneiform, respectively. The distal and proximal surfaces are all smooth, cartilage covered articular facets for the second metatarsal and navicular bones. The narrow plantar and broad dorsal surfaces are roughened for the attachment of strong interosseous ligaments.
Etymology
Cuneus is Latin for wedge. With the combining word form connoting shape the word becomes the wedge-shaped bone. Visual inspection of these bones reveals their tapering wedge-like nature.
Articulations
It articulates with six bones: the navicular, cuboid, intermediate cuneiform, and the second, third, and fourth metatarsal bones.
Ossification
It ossifies from a single center that arises during the first year of life. Ossification is usually complete by the onset of puberty.
Latin
Os cuneiforme laterale
French
Cunéiforme latéral