A trauma surgeon explains to a student that a particular ligament of the hip joint is the strongest ligament in the human body and is the chief restraint against hyperextension of the hip. Which ligament is this?
- A Ligament of the head of the femur
- B Iliofemoral ligament ✓
- C Pubofemoral ligament
- D Ischiofemoral ligament
Correct answer: B. Iliofemoral ligament
Explanation
The iliofemoral ligament, also called the ligament of Bigelow, is an inverted Y shaped band anterior to the hip joint and is the strongest ligament in the body. It arises from the AIIS and acetabular margin and limits hyperextension, helping maintain upright posture without muscular effort. The ischiofemoral ligament is spiral and weakly limits internal rotation, while the pubofemoral ligament limits abduction. The ligament of the head of the femur carries the foveal artery but contributes little to stability.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy for Students, 4th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.