Abstract:

Objective　To explore anatomic features of retinacula of femoral neck, and provide anatomic basis for clinic application.　Methods　4 fresh lower limb specimens and 60 adult lower limb specimens injected arterially with red emulsion were collected. The position, course, shape, distribution and the width of middle part of retinacula were dissected and analyzed. 　Results　The upper retinaculum, which was found in all specimens, and without anatomic variation, located from 11 o'clock to 1 o'clock position. The lower retinaculum, which was also found in all specimens, located from 6 o'clock to7 and a half o'clock. This retinacula was the strongest one among three retinaculum. The anterior retinaculum, which was only found in 60% specimens, located from 2 and a half o'clock to 4 o'clock position. Anatomic variation of the anterior one was common. Histological examination revealed that the blood vessel passed through the retinaculum, and mainly distributed to both of upper and lower retinaculum, followed by nerve distribution. For exposing femoral neck safely, the best site was from 8 o'clock to 10 o'clock position, where was absent for retinaculum.　Conclusions　The upper and the lower retinaculum have abundant blood supply and nerve innervation, with the stable distribution, which are the important source of femoral neck's blood supply. The surgical operation will be more safely and convenient through an posteromedial incision of the greater trochanter.

Key words: Femoral neck, Blood supply, Retinacula