Mid-inguinal point

Anatomical landmark on the human body

Mid-inguinal point

The mid-inguinal point is an important anatomical landmark located on the human body. It is defined as the point halfway along the line between the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) and the pubic symphysis. This point is clinically significant as it is used to locate the femoral artery and the femoral nerve, which are crucial structures in the inguinal region.

Diagram showing the mid-inguinal point

Anatomical significance

The mid-inguinal point is a key reference in various medical procedures and examinations. It is particularly important in the context of vascular surgery and anesthesia. The femoral artery, which can be palpated at this point, is often accessed for procedures such as cardiac catheterization and angiography. Additionally, the femoral nerve, which lies just lateral to the artery, can be targeted for nerve blocks to provide anesthesia to the lower limb.

Clinical applications

In clinical practice, the mid-inguinal point is used as a guide for:

• Femoral artery cannulation: This procedure involves inserting a catheter into the femoral artery for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes. The mid-inguinal point helps in accurately locating the artery to minimize complications.

• Femoral nerve block: Anesthesia providers use the mid-inguinal point to locate the femoral nerve for regional anesthesia, which is beneficial in surgeries involving the lower extremity.

• Assessment of inguinal hernias: The mid-inguinal point is also used in the physical examination of patients suspected of having inguinal hernias, as it helps in differentiating between direct and indirect hernias based on their relation to the point.

Related anatomical landmarks

The mid-inguinal point should not be confused with the midpoint of the inguinal ligament, which is the point halfway between the ASIS and the pubic tubercle. While both points are in close proximity, they serve different clinical purposes and are used to locate different anatomical structures.

Related pages

• Inguinal ligament
• Femoral artery
• Femoral nerve
• Inguinal hernia
• Anterior superior iliac spine
• Pubic symphysis