anterior superior iliac spine anterior superior iliac spine the anterior superior iliac spine (abbreviated: asis) is a bony projection of the iliac bone, and an important landmark of surface anatomy. it refers to the anterior extremity of the iliac crest of the pelvis. it provides attachment for the inguinal ligament, and the sartorius muscle. the tensor fasciae latae muscle attaches to the lateral aspect of the superior anterior iliac spine, and also about 5 cm away at the iliac tubercle. anterior superior iliac spinethe obturator membrane (anterior superior iliac spine visible in upper right of illustration)anterior superior iliac spine labeled second to bottom, rightdetailsidentifierslatinspina iliaca anterior superiorta98a02.5.01.111ta21327fma49465anatomical terms of bone structure the anterior superior iliac spine refers to the anterior extremity of the iliac crest of the pelvis. this is a key surface landmark, and easily palpated. it provides attachment for the inguinal ligament, the sartorius muscle, and the tensor fasciae latae muscle. a variety of structures lie close to the anterior superior iliac spine, including the subcostal nerve, the femoral artery (which passes between it and the pubic symphysis), and the iliohypogastric nerve. clinical significance