Posterior Hip Capsule at Thigh Level

capsula articularis coxae posterior (pars femoralis)

The posterior hip capsule attaches to the posterior femoral neck, blending with the ischiofemoral ligament and posterior capsular retinacular vessels. At the thigh level it forms the posterior containment for the femoral head and is opened during posterior hip arthroplasty approaches.

Region: Thigh

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Posterior femoral head containment; limits hip internal rotation and flexion; carries retinacular vessels supplying the femoral head.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The posterior hip capsule at the femoral neck level contains the retinacular blood vessels supplying the femoral head — its disruption in posterior hip dislocation and femoral neck fracture is the primary cause of avascular necrosis. Posterior total hip arthroplasty requires posterior capsular repair (capsulorrhaphy) to restore posterior stability and reduce dislocation risk. Posterior capsule release is required in hip flexion contracture.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Retinacular Vessel Disruption in Hip Dislocation

Posterior hip capsule tear disrupting the retinacular vessels to the femoral head in posterior hip dislocation, producing avascular necrosis risk that increases with time to reduction — urgent reduction within 6 hours is critical.