Which muscle is positioned posteriorly in relation to the adductor canal?

The adductor canal, also known as Hunter's canal, is an anatomical space located in the thigh that contains important neurovascular structures including the femoral artery and vein, and the saphenous nerve. Understanding the muscular anatomy surrounding this canal is crucial for various surgical and clinical procedures.

The adductor magnus muscle plays a key role in this context as it is located posteriorly in relation to the adductor canal. This large muscle has two parts: an adductor part that is situated more anteriorly and a hamstring part that is positioned posteriorly. The hamstring portion of the adductor magnus originates from the ischial tuberosity and inserts into the adductor tubercle of the femur, forming a significant boundary above the popliteal fossa and thus lying behind the adductor canal.

In contrast, the other muscles listed, such as the adductor longus, vastus medialis, and rectus femoris, are located either laterally or anteriorly to the adductor canal. The adductor longus is positioned anteriorly and laterally within the thigh, while the vastus medialis is a quadriceps muscle that lies on the medial side but does not extend posteriorly. Rectus fem