Femoral canal

Femoral Canal

The Femoral Canal is an anatomical structure found in the human body, specifically within the femoral triangle. It is the smallest and most medial part of the femoral sheath.

Etymology

The term "Femoral" is derived from the Latin word "femur", which means thigh. The word "Canal" comes from the Latin "canalis" meaning a pipe or tube.

Anatomy

The femoral canal is approximately 1.25 cm long and is conical in shape. It is located medial to the femoral vein and lateral to the lacunar ligament. The canal contains loose fatty tissue and lymphatic vessels, and its upper opening, the femoral ring, is covered by a septum which is pierced by lymphatic vessels.

Clinical Significance

The femoral canal is clinically significant as it is a potential site for the development of a femoral hernia. This type of hernia occurs when a part of the intestine protrudes into the canal. Femoral hernias are more common in women than in men due to the wider shape of the female pelvis.

Related Terms

• Femoral Triangle: An anatomical region of the upper inner human thigh.
• Femoral Vein: A blood vessel that accompanies the femoral artery in the femoral sheath.
• Lacunar Ligament: A ligament in the inguinal region that connects the inguinal ligament to the pectineal ligament.
• Femoral Hernia: A type of hernia that causes a bulge in the upper thigh.

See Also

• Femoral Artery
• Femoral Nerve
• Inguinal Ligament
• Pectineal Ligament

Femoral canal Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia