A patient with a neglected posterior dislocation of the hip is being assessed before reduction. Which ligament of the hip joint is the strongest and acts as the chief restraint against hyperextension?

• A Ischiofemoral ligament
• B Pubofemoral ligament
• C Ligamentum teres
• D Iliofemoral ligament ✓

Explanation

The iliofemoral ligament (Y-shaped ligament of Bigelow) is the strongest ligament of the body and blends with the capsule anteriorly. It checks hyperextension and assists standing posture by allowing the pelvis to tilt backward without muscle effort. The pubofemoral ligament limits abduction, the ischiofemoral ligament limits medial rotation, and the ligamentum teres carries the foveal artery but contributes little stability.

Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.