McBurney point
Pronunciation: mik-BUR-nee point
Anatomical landmark located one-third the distance from anterior superior iliac spine to umbilicus, classically associated with appendicitis pain.
Full Definition
McBurney point is a specific anatomical landmark described by American surgeon Charles McBurney in 1889, located at the junction of the lateral one-third and medial two-thirds of a line drawn from the anterior superior iliac spine to the umbilicus. This point corresponds to the typical location of the appendiceal base and is where maximum tenderness is often elicited in acute appendicitis. The McBurney incision for open appendectomy is centered over this point. Proper identification and documentation of this landmark is essential for clinical assessment and surgical planning.
Usage
Usage note: Named anatomical landmark; capitalize both words.
In Context
- "Physical examination revealed point tenderness at McBurney point consistent with acute appendicitis." — clinical assessment
- "A McBurney incision was made for open appendectomy approach." — operative note