Transverse acetabular ligament

A ligament of the hip joint

The transverse acetabular ligament is a part of the hip joint that plays a crucial role in stabilizing the femur within the acetabulum.

Structure

The transverse acetabular ligament is a flat band of fibers that bridges the acetabular notch, a gap in the inferior part of the acetabulum. Unlike other ligaments, it does not contain cartilage cells, but it is continuous with the acetabular labrum, a ring of cartilage that deepens the acetabulum. The ligament is composed of strong fibrous tissue that helps to maintain the integrity of the hip joint by preventing excessive movement of the femoral head.

Function

The primary function of the transverse acetabular ligament is to support the acetabular labrum and help secure the femoral head within the acetabulum. It acts as a stabilizing structure, preventing dislocation of the hip joint by limiting excessive movement. Additionally, it helps to protect the blood vessels and nerves that pass beneath it, contributing to the overall stability and function of the hip joint.

Clinical significance

Injuries to the transverse acetabular ligament are rare but can occur due to trauma or degenerative changes in the hip joint. Damage to this ligament can lead to instability of the hip joint and may contribute to conditions such as hip dysplasia or osteoarthritis. Surgical interventions may be necessary to repair or reconstruct the ligament in cases of significant injury.

Images

Diagram of the hip joint, showing the transverse acetabular ligament.

Histological section showing the transverse acetabular ligament.

Close-up of the transverse acetabular ligament in a histological section.

Related pages

• Hip joint
• Acetabulum
• Femur
• Acetabular labrum

References

• Standring, S. (2016). Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 41st edition. Elsevier.
• Moore, K. L., Dalley, A. F., & Agur, A. M. R. (2013). Clinically Oriented Anatomy. 7th edition. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

• 

  Transverse acetabular ligament

• 

  Transverse acetabular ligament

• 

  Transverse acetabular ligament