Acetabular notch

Acetabular Notch

The acetabular notch is a key anatomical feature of the pelvis, specifically part of the acetabulum, which is the concave surface of the pelvis that forms the socket of the hip joint.

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Diagram of the acetabulum showing the acetabular notch.

Anatomy

The acetabular notch is located at the inferior margin of the acetabulum. It is a deep notch that interrupts the otherwise circular rim of the acetabulum. This notch is bridged by the transverse acetabular ligament, which converts the notch into a foramen through which blood vessels and nerves pass.

Function

The acetabular notch plays a crucial role in the stability and function of the hip joint. It allows for the passage of the ligamentum teres, a ligament that attaches the head of the femur to the acetabulum, providing additional stability to the joint. The notch also accommodates the acetabular labrum, a fibrocartilaginous rim that deepens the acetabulum and enhances the stability of the hip joint.

Clinical Significance

Injuries or abnormalities involving the acetabular notch can affect the stability and function of the hip joint. Conditions such as acetabular dysplasia or hip dysplasia may involve malformations of the acetabular notch, leading to joint instability and increased risk of osteoarthritis.

Related Pages

• Acetabulum
• Hip joint
• Pelvis
• Ligamentum teres
• Acetabular labrum