Pubofemoral Ligament: Anatomy, Attachments, Relations, Function, Clinical Significance, MRI & CT Imaging

Topic

Pubofemoral ligament

The pubofemoral ligament is one of the three major extracapsular ligaments of the hip joint, along with the iliofemoral and ischiofemoral ligaments. It is a strong band of connective tissue that reinforces the anteroinferior aspect of the hip capsule. By spanning from the pubic bone to the femur, it plays a crucial role in limiting excessive abduction and extension of the hip, thereby contributing to joint stability.

Synonyms

Anteroinferior hip ligament
Pubic-femoral ligament
Pubocapsular ligament (sometimes used)

Attachments

Proximal attachment (origin): Arises from the superior ramus of the pubis near the acetabular rim and obturator crest
Distal attachment (insertion): Blends with the fibrous capsule of the hip joint and attaches to the intertrochanteric line of the femur inferior to the iliofemoral ligament

Relations

Anteriorly: Iliopsoas muscle and tendon
Posteriorly: Hip joint capsule and articular structures
Superiorly: Adjacent to iliofemoral ligament
Inferiorly: Blends with fibers near the ischiofemoral ligament and obturator externus

Nerve Supply

Sensory innervation from branches of the femoral nerve and obturator nerve supplying the hip capsule

Arterial Supply

Medial circumflex femoral artery
Lateral circumflex femoral artery
Obturator artery branches

Venous Drainage

Venous return parallels arterial supply into the femoral and obturator venous systems

Function

Reinforces the anteroinferior hip joint capsule
Prevents excessive abduction and extension of the hip joint
Provides stability during weight bearing and gait
Works in synergy with iliofemoral and ischiofemoral ligaments to maintain femoral head within acetabulum