Which muscle forms the lateral boundary of the adductor canal?

The muscle that forms the lateral boundary of the adductor canal is the vastus lateralis. Located on the lateral side of the thigh, the vastus lateralis contributes to the formation of the canal's boundary along with the other components. This canal, also known as Hunter's canal, allows for the passage of the femoral artery, femoral vein, and the saphenous nerve, as well as the subsartorial plexus.

In contrast, the vastus medialis is positioned medially and forms part of the medial boundary of the adductor canal, while the vastus intermedius lies deep to the vastus lateralis and does not directly influence the lateral border. The rectus femoris, although part of the quadriceps group that contributes to the structure around the canal, does not specifically form its lateral boundary, as it is situated more anteriorly in the thigh. Understanding the anatomy of these muscles helps in further clarifying the spatial relationships within the thigh and the function of the adductor canal.