Femoral Arch Space

spatium arcus femoralis

The femoral arch space is the region beneath the inguinal ligament through which the femoral vessels, femoral nerve, and iliopsoas muscle pass from the abdomen into the thigh. It is divided by the iliopectineal arch into a lateral muscular compartment (femoral nerve, iliopsoas) and a medial vascular compartment (femoral artery and vein within the femoral sheath).

Region: Thigh

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The femoral arch space is the target for femoral nerve block and femoral arterial access. The iliopectineal arch is the septum between the muscular and vascular compartments and determines the spread of local anaesthetic during femoral nerve block. Femoral artery access for cardiac catheterisation is gained just below this arch. Iliopectineal arch release is part of femoral nerve decompression in meralgia paresthetica surgery.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Femoral Arch Compression Syndrome

Compression of the femoral nerve or artery beneath the inguinal ligament at the femoral arch space from haematoma, lipoma, or iliopectineal band tightness, producing anterior thigh pain and femoral neuropathy managed by arch release.