Acetabular notch

The acetabular notch is a feature of the hip bone that plays a crucial role in the structure and function of the acetabulum.

Anatomy

The acetabular notch is a deep notch located at the inferior margin of the acetabulum, which is the concave surface of the pelvis that articulates with the femoral head to form the hip joint. The notch is situated between the anterior and posterior horns of the acetabulum.

Function

The acetabular notch serves as a passageway for important structures such as the ligamentum teres and the acetabular artery. The ligamentum teres, also known as the ligament of the head of the femur, attaches to the fovea of the femoral head and provides a conduit for the acetabular artery, which supplies blood to the head of the femur.

Clinical significance

The acetabular notch is clinically significant in procedures involving the hip joint, such as hip replacement surgery. Understanding its anatomy is essential for surgeons to avoid damaging the structures that pass through it. Additionally, variations in the size and shape of the acetabular notch can affect the stability and function of the hip joint.

Related structures

• Acetabulum
• Hip joint
• Femoral head
• Ligamentum teres

Related pages

• Pelvis
• Hip replacement
• Orthopedic surgery

Gallery

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  Illustration of the acetabular notch