Iliopectineal arch

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Iliopectineal arch

The iliopectineal arch is an important anatomical structure in the human body, particularly within the pelvis region. It is a fibrous band that extends from the iliopubic eminence to the iliopectineal line of the pelvic bone. This arch plays a crucial role in separating the muscular and vascular compartments of the retroinguinal space.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The iliopectineal arch is part of the inguinal ligament complex. It is located deep to the inguinal ligament and is formed by a thickening of the iliopsoas fascia. The arch divides the space beneath the inguinal ligament into two distinct compartments:

The lateral compartment, which contains the iliopsoas muscle and the femoral nerve.
The medial compartment, which contains the femoral artery, femoral vein, and the lymphatic vessels.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the iliopectineal arch is to provide structural support and compartmentalization within the retroinguinal space. By separating the muscular and vascular compartments, it helps to protect the femoral nerve from compression by the femoral artery and femoral vein during movements of the hip and thigh.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The iliopectineal arch is of clinical importance in various medical procedures and conditions. For instance, it is a landmark in femoral hernia repairs and is also considered during the surgical approach to the hip joint. Additionally, the arch can be involved in conditions such as iliopectineal bursitis, where inflammation of the bursa located near the arch can cause pain and discomfort.