The head of the fibula articulates with a crescentic facet just below
the outer margin of the external condyle of the tibia. The =joint
capsule= is strong and close. The shaft of the fibula is attached to the
external border of the tibia by the =interosseous membrane= of the leg
(Membrana interossea cruris); this is perforated about an inch from its
proximal end by an opening which transmits the anterior tibial vessels
to the front of the tibia. A fibrous cord usually extends from the
distal end of the shaft of the fibula to the external malleolus. The
latter is the distal end of the fibula which has fused with the tibia.
No appreciable movement occurs in this joint.
[Illustration:
FIG. 162.—LEFT HOCK JOINT OF HORSE, EXTERNAL VIEW.
]
[Illustration: