Inguinal Ligament

ligamentum inguinale

The inguinal ligament is the folded lower border of the external oblique aponeurosis, stretching from the ASIS to the pubic tubercle. It forms the floor of the inguinal canal through which the spermatic cord (males) or round ligament (females) passes. The femoral vessels pass deep to its lateral half into the femoral triangle, and the femoral nerve passes lateral to them under the iliac fascia.

Region: Abdomen

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	Anterior superior iliac spine
Insertion	Pubic tubercle

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Actions	Forms the floor of the inguinal canal; supports the inguinal canal structures; divides the anterior abdominal wall from the thigh

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Inguinal hernia repair reconstructs the posterior wall of the inguinal canal medial to the deep ring. The relationship of the inguinal ligament to the femoral nerve, artery, and vein (lateral to medial in the femoral sheath) is the basis of femoral triangle anatomy. Femoral hernias emerge inferiorly through the femoral canal medial to the femoral vein below the inguinal ligament.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Inguinal Hernia

Abdominal wall defect at the inguinal canal producing groin bulge managed with laparoscopic or open mesh repair.