The Femoral Canal
The femoral canal is the most medial compartment of the femoral sheath. It is a small, conical space that allows for the expansion of the femoral vein during periods of increased venous return.
Boundaries
| Boundary | Structure |
|---|---|
| Medial | Lacunar ligament. |
| Lateral | Femoral vein. |
| Anterior | Inguinal ligament. |
| Posterior | Pectineal ligament (Cooper’s ligament). |
Contents
- Loose connective tissue
- Fat
- Lymphatics (including the Cloquet node)
High-Yield Exam Pearl:
Femoral hernias occur through the femoral canal. Because the canal is bordered by rigid structures (specifically the lacunar ligament medially), femoral hernias are highly prone to strangulation and are much more common in women due to the wider anatomy of the female pelvis.