78 THE STRUCTURE OF MAN 
centimetres above the internal condyle, a bony process (processus 
supra-condyloideus) (pr., Fig. 55, D) sometimes projects in a hook- 
like manner, a fibrous band passing from it to the ent-epicondylar 
region. The Median Nerve runs through the foramen thus 
enclosed. This foramen is very common among the lower animals, 
Fic. 55.—DistaL EXTREMITY OF THE HUMERUS TO SHOW EPICONDYLAR FORAMINA. 
A, in Hatteria ; B, in a Lizard (Lacerta ocellata) ; C, in the domestic Cat ; D, in Man ; 
c.e., external condyle ; ¢.7., internal condyle. In A the two foramina are developed 
(at i, the ent-epicondylar ; at ii, the ect-epicondylar). The only canal (+) present 
in the Lizard (B) is on the external volar side, in the cartilaginous distal extremity. 
In Man (D) an ent-epicondylar process (p7.) is developed and continued as a fibrous 
band. 
and is of very great antiquity. It is found not only in very many 
quadrupedal Mammals, but in Reptiles (Fig. 55, A and B), in 
fossil forms which skeletally combine Amphibian with Reptilian 
characters (Palewohatteria, Homeosaurus), and in fossil Amphibians 
(Stegocephala) of the Permian period (Stereorhachis and Both- 
riops). 
1 [Struthers has recorded an interesting case of hereditary development of this 
supra-condyloid process (Lancet, 15th February 1873), and has specially advocated 
the view that the completion of the process in Man has a reversionary significance, 
and not that of mere overgrowth for protection, frequently occurrent in all parts 
