Femoral ring

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Femoral ring

The femoral ring is an anatomical structure located in the upper thigh, near the groin. It is the base of the femoral canal, which is a pathway that allows structures such as lymphatic vessels to pass from the abdomen to the thigh. The femoral ring is clinically significant because it is a common site for the occurrence of femoral hernias.

Anatomy

The femoral ring is bordered by several important anatomical structures:

• Anteriorly by the inguinal ligament
• Posteriorly by the pectineal ligament (also known as the ligament of Cooper)
• Medially by the lacunar ligament
• Laterally by the femoral vein

The femoral ring is covered by a layer of connective tissue known as the femoral septum, which helps to contain the contents of the femoral canal.

Clinical Significance

The femoral ring is a critical area in the context of hernias. A femoral hernia occurs when abdominal contents, such as intestines, protrude through the femoral ring into the femoral canal. This type of hernia is more common in women due to the wider bone structure of the female pelvis. Femoral hernias can lead to complications such as strangulation of the herniated tissue, which requires prompt medical attention.

Related Structures

• Femoral canal
• Femoral vein
• Inguinal ligament
• Lacunar ligament
• Pectineal ligament

See Also

• Femoral hernia
• Inguinal canal
• Hernia