Femoral Triangle Fascia

fascia trianguli femoris

The fascia lata over the femoral triangle forms the roof of the triangular space (inguinal ligament superiorly, sartorius laterally, adductor longus medially) containing the femoral neurovascular bundle and deep inguinal nodes. The fossa ovalis is the fascial perforation for the saphenous vein.

Anatomical Data

Boundaries & Contents

Location	Front of the upper thigh, the part of the fascia lata covering the femoral triangle
Boundaries	Above: inguinal ligament Laterally: continuous over sartorius Medially: continuous over adductor longus Perforated by the saphenous opening, which is closed by the cribriform fascia
Contents	Femoral nerve, femoral sheath with the femoral artery and vein, and deep inguinal lymph nodes lie beneath it Great saphenous vein and lymphatic vessels pass through the saphenous opening

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Forms the roof of the femoral triangle and protects the femoral vessels and nerve; the saphenous opening lets the great saphenous vein reach the femoral vein.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The triangle is the landmark for femoral vessel access in cardiac catheterisation, femoral nerve block, and inguinal lymph node biopsy. Femoral pseudoaneurysm after catheterisation occurs within the triangle.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Femoral Triangle in Cardiac Catheterisation

The common femoral artery punctured within the triangle below the inguinal ligament and above the femoral bifurcation for safe vascular access.

Femoral Hernia at Fossa Ovalis

Femoral hernia contents emerging through the saphenous opening below and lateral to the pubic tubercle.

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