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Posterior Hip Capsular Ligament

capsula articularis coxae posterior

The posterior hip capsule is reinforced by the ischiofemoral ligament and the orbicular zone, providing posterior constraint of the femoral head. It is thinner than the anterior capsule.

Region: Pelvis & Hip

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Resists posterior femoral head displacement and internal rotation, provides posterior stability particularly in the flexed position, and is disrupted in posterior hip dislocation.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The posterior hip capsule is the primary structure disrupted in posterior hip dislocation — the most common type of traumatic hip dislocation. Posterior capsular repair after arthroplasty (particularly posterior approach THA) reduces dislocation risk — the "posterior capsular repair" includes repair of the external rotators and posterior capsule.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Posterior Hip Dislocation with Capsule Disruption

Traumatic posterior hip dislocation disrupting the posterior capsule and ischiofemoral ligament, requiring urgent reduction within 6 hours to prevent femoral head avascular necrosis.

Posterior Capsular Repair in THA

Repair of the posterior capsule and short external rotators after posterior approach total hip arthroplasty, the most evidence-based technique for reducing posterior dislocation risk.