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Ligamentum Teres of the Hip

ligamentum capitis femoris

The ligamentum teres (round ligament) of the hip connects the fovea capitis of the femoral head to the acetabular notch and transverse acetabular ligament, transmitting a branch of the obturator artery to the femoral head in children.

Region: Pelvis & Hip

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Provides a minor constraint against hip distraction, transmits blood supply to the femoral head in childhood (diminishing with age), and is a potential hip pain generator when torn or hypertrophied.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Ligamentum teres tears are now recognised as a cause of hip pain in active individuals, diagnosed by hip arthroscopy and MR arthrography. Isolated ligamentum teres tears without labral pathology can produce significant hip pain. Arthroscopic debridement or reconstruction addresses symptomatic tears.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Ligamentum Teres Tear in Hip Instability

Traumatic or atraumatic ligamentum teres disruption producing hip clicking, pain with loaded rotation, and microinstability, treated by arthroscopic debridement or reconstruction.

Avascular Necrosis in Childhood from LT Disruption

Disruption of the ligamentum teres blood supply in children with hip dislocation producing femoral head avascular necrosis — the Trueta blood supply to the femoral head depends on the LT until physeal closure.