The ligamentum teres of the hip: an arthroscopic classification of its pathology

Arthroscopy. 1997 Oct;13(5):575-8. doi: 10.1016/s0749-8063(97)90182-1.

Abstract

Pathology of the ligamentum teres is rarely diagnosed. We describe the classification of the lesions seen at hip arthroscopy based on a group of 20 patients. Three groups are noted: complete rupture, partial rupture, and the degenerate ligamentum. The complete ligamentum teres rupture group had a history of either major trauma or surgery and had a high incidence of other hip pathology such as labral tears and articular damage. The partial ligamentum rupture group presented with a long history of ill-defined hip pain. Minor associated hip abnormalities were seen at arthroscopy. Degenerate ligamentum teres rupture presented with symptoms of the underlying osteoarthritis. Debridement or washout was performed but, at 2 years, patients had severe persistent symptoms or had had a joint replacement.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Hip Dislocation / pathology
  • Hip Fractures / pathology
  • Hip Joint*
  • Humans
  • Ligaments, Articular / injuries*
  • Ligaments, Articular / pathology*
  • Male
  • Osteoarthritis, Hip / pathology
  • Rupture