Trochanter:This term refers to one of the bony projections located near the upper end of the femur, or thighbone. There are two distinct trochanters:The Greater Trochanter:This is a prominent outgrowth found at the upper and outer part of the femur's shaft. Known also as the major trochanter, it is sometimes referred to as the outer trochanter or the lateral process of the femur.The Lesser Trochanter:This is a smaller, pyramid-shaped projection arising from the upper and inner section of the femur's shaft. It is also known as the minor trochanter, the inner trochanter, or the medial process of the femur.These trochanters serve as the attachment sites for muscles of the hip and thigh. The greater trochanter is the point of attachment for several muscles, including the gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, piriformis, obturator internus and externus, and gemelli muscles. Meanwhile, the lesser trochanter is where muscles such as the psoas major and iliacus connect.
