Assistant
Definition
By Gregory R. Waryasz, MD
The pubofemoral ligament of the musculoskeletal system is characterized by its location.
It is part of the hip joint. It consists of fibrous dense regular connective tissue of collagen fibers.
Its unique structural feature is that it is anterior and inferiorly located. It connects the obturator crest of the pubic bone to the inferior joint capsule. The ligament blends with the medial iliofemoral ligament.
The pubofemoral ligament as well as all other bones, muscles, and ligaments of the body are derived of mesodermal origin in embryo.
The function of the pubofemoral ligament is to prevent overabduction of the hip joint. Because it is interwoven with the iliofemoral ligament, it also tightens during extension and abduction. The ligaments of the hip also help to reinforce the hip capsule.
Common diseases include ligament tears.
Commonly used diagnostic procedures include clinical history, physical exam, and MRI.
It is usually treated with physical therapy and NSAIDs. Surgery can be performed either with a large open incision or performed with arthroscopy.
References
Elstrom J, Virkus W, Pankovich (eds), Handbook of Fractures (3rd edition), McGraw Hill, New York, NY, 2006.
Koval K, Zuckerman J (eds), Handbook of Fractures (3rd edition), Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia, PA, 2006.
Lieberman J (ed), AAOS Comprehensive Orthopaedic Review, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2008.
Moore K, Dalley A (eds), Clinically Oriented Anatomy (5th edition), Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia, PA, 2006.