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(Redirected from Broad ligaments)
Wide fold of peritoneum that connects the sides of the uterus to the walls and floor of the pelvis
Broad ligament of the uterus
Uterus and right broad ligament, seen from behind. (Broad ligament visible at center.)
suspensory ligament of the ovary (Some sources consider it a part of the broad ligament, while other sources just consider it a "termination" of the ligament.)
Relations
The peritoneum surrounds the uterus like a flat sheet that folds over its fundus, covering it anteriorly and posteriorly; on the sides of the uterus, this sheet of peritoneum comes in direct contact with itself, forming the double layer of peritoneum known as the broad ligament of the uterus.
The part where this peritoneal sheet is folded (i.e. the free edge) has the uterine tubes running between the two layers; this part is known as the mesosalpinx.
Function
The broad ligament serves as a mesentery for the uterus, ovaries, and the uterine tubes. It helps in maintaining the uterus in its position, but it is not a major contributing factor.
Clinical significance
Broad ligament hernias are rare. Due to their vague clinical presentation they are difficult to distinguish from other types of internal hernias, which can cause small bowel obstruction.
Uterus and right broad ligament, seen from behind. (Broad ligament visible at center.)
Broad ligament of adult, showing epoöphoron
This article incorporates text in the public domain from page 1259 of the 20th edition of Gray's Anatomy (1918)
