Uterosacral ligament
Major ligaments of the uterus From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The uterosacral ligaments (or rectouterine ligaments[1]) are major ligaments of uterus that extend posterior-ward from the cervix to attach onto the (anterior aspect of the[2]) sacrum.[3]
| Uterosacral ligament | |
|---|---|
Uterosacral ligament (in white color) connect between the sacrum and uterus. | |
| Details | |
| Identifiers | |
| Latin | ligamentum rectouterinum[1] |
| TA98 | A09.1.03.032 |
| TA2 | 3840 |
| FMA | 19111 |
| Anatomical terminology | |
Structure
Microanatomy/histology
The uterosacral ligaments consist of fibrous connective tissue, and smooth muscle tissue.[3]
Relations
The uterosacral ligaments pass inferior to the peritoneum. They embrace the rectouterine pouch, and rectum.[3] The pelvic splanchnic nerves run on top[further explanation needed] of the ligament.[4]
Function
The uterosacral ligaments pull the cervix posterior-ward, counteracting the anterior-ward pull exerted by the round ligament of uterus upon the fundus of the uterus, thus maintaining anteversion of the body of the uterus.[3]
Clinical significance
The uterosacral ligaments may be palpated during a rectal examination, but not during pelvic examination.[3]
References
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