The ligamentum teres is a cord-like structure connecting the head of the femur (thigh bone) to the acetabulum (hip socket).
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Attachment Points: The ligamentum teres originates from the acetabular fossa (a depression within the acetabulum) and transverse acetabular ligament and inserts into a small pit on the head of the femur called the fovea capitis.
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Structure: It comprises two parallel fibrous bands.
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Function: While its exact function is still debated, it's thought to:
- Provide some hip joint stability, particularly in childhood.
- Limit excessive hip movement, especially rotation and abduction.
- Serve as a conduit for a small artery (the acetabular branch of the obturator artery) that supplies blood to the femoral head, especially important in early development.
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Clinical Significance: Damage to the ligamentum teres can occur due to hip dislocations or other injuries. While not a primary stabilizer of the hip in adults, injury can contribute to pain and instability, particularly if other supporting structures are also compromised. Tears can be visualized and treated arthroscopically.
In summary, the ligamentum teres is a ligament within the hip joint that provides some stability and houses a small blood vessel crucial for femoral head development.
