INGUINAL LIGAMENT Meaning and
Definition
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The inguinal ligament is a tough fibrous structure that is part of the musculoskeletal system and primarily located in the lower abdomen. It is a band-like ligament that extends from the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS), a prominent bony ridge of the pelvis, to the pubic tubercle, a small bony projection in the lower part of the pelvis. The ligament runs obliquely along the lower abdomen, forming the boundary of the inguinal canal.
The inguinal ligament serves various important functions. It provides support and stability to the lower abdominal muscles and structures, aiding in maintaining proper posture and movement. It also acts as a landmark for different structures in the inguinal region, such as nerves, blood vessels, and lymph nodes.
The inguinal ligament plays a crucial role in the anatomy of the inguinal canal. This canal is a passage that extends from the deep abdominal cavity to the external genitalia and is present on both sides of the body. In males, the inguinal canal allows the passage of the spermatic cord, which includes the vas deferens and blood vessels supplying the testicles. In females, the inguinal canal allows the passage of the round ligament of the uterus. Additionally, the canal can also be a site of potential weakness and herniation.
Overall, the inguinal ligament is an important anatomical structure that provides support, stability, and serves as a landmark for various structures in the lower abdomen.
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Poupart's ligament, ligamentum inguinale.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for INGUINAL LIGAMENT
- i nguinal ligament
- in guinal ligament
- ing uinal ligament
- ingu inal ligament
- ingui nal ligament
- inguin al ligament
- inguina l ligament
- inguinal l igament
- inguinal li gament
- inguinal lig ament
- inguinal liga ment
- inguinal ligam ent
- inguinal ligame nt
- inguinal ligamen t
Etymology of INGUINAL LIGAMENT
The word "inguinal" originates from the Latin term "inguen", which means "the groin" or "groin region". The word "ligament" also stems from Latin and refers to a band or strip of fibrous tissue that connects bones or supports organs. Therefore, the term "inguinal ligament" is derived from Latin and indicates the fibrous band or structure in the groin region connecting the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) of the pelvis to the pubic tubercle.
