Iliopsoas Compartment at the Hip

compartimentum iliopsoaticum ad coxam

The iliopsoas compartment at the hip is the fascial space occupied by the iliopsoas tendon and muscle as they pass from the iliacus fossa over the pelvic brim, beneath the inguinal ligament and the iliopectineal arch, and into the anterior thigh toward their insertion on the lesser trochanter. The compartment contains the iliopsoas bursa, which communicates with the hip joint in 15% of individuals.

Region: Thigh

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The iliopsoas compartment is the site of iliopsoas abscess (primary from haematogenous seeding of the psoas, or secondary from spinal or pelvic infection), producing fever, flank pain, and a flexed hip posture. CT identifies the psoas abscess and guides drainage catheter placement. Iliopsoas impingement in total hip arthroplasty occurs when the acetabular cup overhangs the anterior wall and irritates the tendon in this compartment. Hip flexion contracture tightens the compartment and stretches the anterior hip capsule.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Iliopsoas Abscess

Pyogenic or tuberculous infection within the iliopsoas compartment producing flank pain, fever, and hip flexion contracture, requiring CT-guided drainage and prolonged antibiotic therapy.

Iliopsoas Impingement Post-THA

Mechanical irritation of the iliopsoas tendon against an overhanging acetabular cup in the iliopsoas compartment, producing anterior groin pain with hip flexion that resolves with psoas release or cup revision.