The topography and morphometrics of the pubic ligaments.
Ann Anat 2021;
236:151698. [PMID:
33582299 DOI:
10.1016/j.aanat.2021.151698]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Conflicting anatomical reports and the little attention given to the pubic ligaments impede the interpretation of radiological and clinical examinations on groin pain. Morphometric data on the pubic ligaments are lacking.
METHODS
The muscular relations of the symphysis pubis were examined in layered dissection (n = 10), hemipelves (n = 60) and (un)stained plastinated body slices of body donors (n = 3). The sagittal and coronal areas, width, mean and maximum thickness of pubic ligaments were determined.
RESULTS
The adductor longus, brevis, rectus abdominis and pyramidalis muscles are attached to the anterior pubic ligament (APL). The adductor brevis and gracilis muscle are connected to the inferior pubic ligament (IPL). The IPL and superior pubic ligament (SPL) are thicker than the APL and posterior pubic ligament (PPL). The PPL is the thinnest pubic ligament. The APL has a larger sagittal area in women than in men compared to the IPL. The SPL and IPL are thicker in men compared to women.
CONCLUSION
The APL is the ligamentous anchor for the originating and inserting muscles. Investigations of the pubic ligaments might help to determine symphysis instability or severity of injury and should be included as a further criterion for surgical management.
Collapse