What is the inguinal ligament and where is it located?

The inguinal ligament is a strong fibrous band that runs from the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) to the pubic tubercle. It is formed by the thickened lower border of the external oblique aponeurosis and lies deep to the groin fold.

What are the main extensions or expansions of the inguinal ligament?

The main extensions are: the lacunar ligament (forms the medial boundary of the femoral canal), the reflected part (superficial fibres fanning upward), the pectineal ligament (extends along the pecten pubis), and the ilioinguinal ligament (divides the subinguinal space).

What is the subinguinal space and what structures pass through it?

The subinguinal space lies beneath the inguinal ligament and allows passage of structures from the pelvis to the thigh. It is divided into two compartments: the lacuna musculorum (contains iliopsoas muscles and femoral nerve) and lacuna vasorum (contains femoral artery and vein within the femoral sheath).

Why is the lacunar ligament clinically important?

The lacunar ligament is clinically important because it forms the medial boundary of the femoral canal, making it a potential site for femoral hernias.

What is the relationship between the inguinal ligament and the inguinal canal?

The inguinal ligament forms the floor of the inguinal canal, with its upper surface grooved to accommodate this canal that transmits important structures.

What structures attach to or are related to the inguinal ligament?

The inguinal ligament attaches to fascia lata on its lower surface, forms the floor of the inguinal canal above, gives rise to medial extensions like the lacunar ligament, and overlies the subinguinal space with neurovascular structures.

Inguinal Ligament – Anatomy, Extensions & Subinguinal Space