Medical Glossary - Letter Q

This medical glossary of terms beginning with the letter "Q" contains the more common medical terms one might expect to encounter in a medical report or in hospital notes. The glossary is intended as a quick reference only; many of the terms are also referenced and illustrated in more detail in the medical libraries, to which you should refer for more detailed information.

Quadratus Femoris

A muscle of the hip, originating from the ischial tuberosity of the pelvis and inserting onto the femur near the lesser trochanter. It assists lateral rotation of the hip and provides some support for the hip joint

Quadratus Lumborum

A muscle of the back originating from the 12th rib and inserting onto the transverse processes of L1-L4. It assists lateral flexion of the trunk

Quadriceps

The quadriceps, or quadriceps femoris is a large muscle group in the front aspect of the thigh; it is composed of four muscles that end in a common tendon, the quadriceps tendon. The quadriceps tendon inserts onto the tibial tuberosity. The main function of the quadriceps is to extend (straighten) the leg at the knee

Quadricepsplasty

Surgical repair of the quadriceps femoris muscle, which is actually a group of four muscles in front of the thigh. The lower end of the four muscles forms the patella tendon. This muscle group straightens the leg at the knee

Quadriplegia

Paralysis of all four limbs