Ligamentum capitis femoris

The ligamentum teres, also known as the ligamentum capitis femoris or round ligament of the hip, is an intra-articular ligament within the medial hip joint.

Gross anatomy

The ligament passes from the transverse ligament and acetabular notch of the acetabulum to the femoral head where it inserts into a shallow depression called the fovea capitis. The ligament is lined by synovium. It ranges from a well-formed structure in some patients to absent in others (case 2).

Function

In the infant it has a significant role so far as it transmits a nutrient artery to the femoral head epiphysis. In the adult, its role is poorly understood, and there are several hypothesized functions which include :

• maintains the upright position as it is tightest when erect and weight-bearing
• aids fine coordination of the hip joint
• additional hip stabilizer in patients with generalized ligamentous laxity, hip dysplasia and in patients with anteroinferior acetabular deficiency
• maintain lubrication in the joint by aiding the distribution of synovial fluid

Anatomical variants

• congenital absence of the ligamentum teres

Related pathology

• ligament rupture or tear
• avulsion fracture of the fovea capitis (case 3)

Siehe auch:

• Hüftkopfnekrose
• Ligamentum transversum acetabuli
• Incisura acetabuli
• Fossa acetabuli
• Ruptur Ligamentum teres acetabuli

und weiter:

• Acetabulum