Ligament of head of femur

Ligament of head of femur

The ligament of head of femur (also known as the ligamentum teres or round ligament of the femur) is a ligament located in the hip joint. It is a small, somewhat flattened band that connects the fovea capitis on the head of the femur to the acetabulum of the pelvis.

Anatomy

The ligament of head of femur originates from the fovea capitis, a small depression on the head of the femur. It then extends to the acetabular notch and the transverse acetabular ligament of the acetabulum. The ligament is enveloped by a synovial membrane and is relatively weak compared to other ligaments in the hip joint.

Function

The primary function of the ligament of head of femur is to provide a conduit for the artery to the head of the femur, which supplies blood to the head of the femur. Although it does not significantly contribute to the stability of the hip joint, it plays a crucial role in the vascularization of the femoral head, especially in children.

Clinical Significance

Damage or disruption to the ligament of head of femur can lead to compromised blood flow to the femoral head, potentially resulting in conditions such as avascular necrosis. This condition can cause pain and limited mobility in the hip joint and may require medical intervention.

Related Structures

• Hip joint
• Femur
• Acetabulum
• Transverse acetabular ligament
• Fovea capitis
• Artery to the head of the femur

See Also

• Hip dislocation
• Avascular necrosis
• Hip replacement