Femoral canal Flashcards
What is the femoral canal?
It is smallest and most medial part of the femoral sheath. It is approximately 1.3cm long.
What makes the medial border?
lacunar ligament.
what makes the lateral border?
femoral vein
what makes the anterior border?
Inguinal liagment
what makes the posterior border?
pectineal ligament, superior ramus of the pubic bone, and the pectineus muscle
Where is the opening to the femoral canal?
The opening to the femoral canal is located at its superior border, known as the femoral ring. The femoral ring is closed by a connective tissue layer – the femoral septum. This septum is pierced by the lymphatic vessels exiting the canal.
Whats the contents of the femoral canal?
The femoral canal contains:
Lymphatic vessels – draining the deep inguinal lymph nodes.
Deep lymph node – the lacunar node.
Empty space.
Loose connective tissue.
What is the purpose of the empty space?
The empty space allows distension of the adjacent femoral vein, so it can cope with increased venous return e.g during walking, or increased intra-abdominal pressure.
What is the clinical significance of the femoral canal?
it a common site of bowel herniation.It presents as a lump situated inferolateral to the pubic tubercle. This type of herniation is more common in women, due to their wider bony pelvis.
