Overview
The femoral canal is a part of the femoral triangle- It is a potential
space for weakness and hernias hence its own separate description.
Gross Anatomy
The femoral
canal is a space medial to the femoral vein of the anterior thigh, in which the
femoral neurovasculature runs as well as the lymph node of Cloquet. The space
allows for expansion of the femoral vein during states of increased venous
return from the leg e.g. running. The opening of the femoral canal is marked by
the femoral ring. The boundaries of the canal is found in the table below.
Clinical Anatomy
Femoral
hernias.
These hernias are more common in women (although
women are still more likely to have an inguinal hernia) and occur when intra-abdominal
contents, escape from their normal cavity, and escape through the femoral ring.
Due to the tight neck of the femoral canal, there is a higher risk of
strangulation. As a result, these hernias should be surgically repaired.
Quick Anatomy
Key Facts
Boundaries |
Structure |
Medial |
Lacunar ligament |
Lateral |
Femoral vein |
Anterior |
Inguinal ligament |
Posterior |
Pectineal ligament |
Aide-Memoire
Summary
References
Moore KL, Dalley AF, Agur AMR. Clincally Oriented Anatomy. 6th
ed, Philadelphia. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2010
S
Jacob. Atlas of Human Anatomy Second Edition. Elsevier 2005