Pericardial Ligaments

ligamenta pericardiaca

The pericardial ligaments are fibrous condensations connecting the fibrous pericardium to surrounding structures: the sternopericardial ligaments (to the sternum), phrenopericardial ligaments (to the diaphragm), and vertebropericardial fibres (to the vertebral column).

Region: Chest

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Fix the pericardium and heart within the mediastinum, prevent excessive cardiac displacement during position changes and respiration, and transmit mechanical forces between the heart and surrounding structures.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The sternopericardial ligaments must be divided during pericardiotomy for cardiac surgery access. Pericardial effusion stretching these ligaments produces the "water bottle" heart shadow on chest X-ray. The phrenopericardial ligament is identified during left pleuropericardial window creation for malignant effusion.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Pericardial Effusion Stretching Ligaments

Pericardial fluid accumulation stretching the sternopericardial ligaments producing a globular cardiac silhouette on X-ray and signs of tamponade when critical.

Pericardiotomy for Cardiac Surgery

Division of the pericardial ligaments during median sternotomy to open the pericardium and expose the heart for bypass surgery.