The function of the antebrachial interosseous membrane.

The relationship between the fibers of the interosseous membrane and the muscle fibers of the deep extensor and flexor muscles was investigated on the basis of 33 forearms. The angle between muscle and membrane fibers was determined radiologically in the dorso-ventral and radio-ulnar planes. The spatial angle of origin can be determined immediately in areas where the membrane is covered by a flexor or extensor muscle alone. In areas where the membrane is covered on both sides, the angle between the muscle force resultant and the membrane fibers is measured. The obtained results lead to the following conclusion: the muscle fibers or the resultant form a specific angle with the membrane fibers which results in the typical functionally predisposed orientation of the membrane fibers.