Femoral Canal

canalis femoralis

The femoral canal is the most medial compartment of the femoral sheath, medial to the femoral vein. It is approximately 1.5 cm long, containing loose connective tissue and lymphatics (Cloquet lymph node at its upper end). Its entrance at the femoral ring is bounded by the inguinal ligament anteriorly, the lacunar ligament medially, the iliopectineal ligament (pectineal fascia) posteriorly, and the femoral vein laterally.

Region: Thigh

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Femoral hernia protrudes through the femoral canal and femoral ring, emerging below and lateral to the pubic tubercle (distinguishing from inguinal hernia above the ligament). Femoral hernias are more common in females, more likely to strangulate (narrow neck), and require surgical repair. The lacunar ligament medial border of the ring must be divided to reduce an incarcerated femoral hernia, with care to avoid the aberrant obturator artery (corona mortis) passing over the pectineal surface.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Strangulated Femoral Hernia

A femoral hernia trapped in the narrow femoral ring with compromise of the bowel blood supply produces a tender irreducible femoral hernia below the inguinal ligament with signs of bowel obstruction; emergency surgical repair through inguinal or femoral approach with division of the lacunar ligament and bowel resection if non-viable.