The anatomical basis for transfixion of the thigh.

Serial cross-sections of the thigh have been used to indicate where osseous transfixion is possible without damaging neuro-vascular structures or major tendons or penetrating a joint. Safe areas for transfixion using fine wires and their corresponding cutaneous zones are indicated. Two cutaneous zones each representing a quarter of the circumference of the thigh form safe zones for transfixion. The first begins on the ventral surface of the hip and ends on the medial aspect of the knee, while the second begins on the posterior aspect of the buttock and ends on the lateral aspect of the knee.