Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2026
09:51
The Transition to an Anterior-Based Muscle Sparing Approach Improves Early Postoperative Function but is Associated with a Learning Curve
Published on: September 7, 2022
Acetabular component positioning using the transverse acetabular ligament: can you find it and does it help?
Noah J Epstein1, Steven T Woolson, Nicholas J Giori
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|August 26, 2010
Summary
The transverse acetabular ligament (TAL) was not consistently identifiable during total hip arthroplasty (THA). When identified, using the TAL for acetabular component positioning offered no accuracy advantage over the free-hand technique.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- The transverse acetabular ligament (TAL) has been proposed as a landmark for acetabular component orientation in total hip arthroplasty (THA).
- Previous research suggested the TAL is identifiable in most patients undergoing THA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the identification rate of the TAL during primary THA.
- To assess the accuracy of the TAL as a guide for acetabular component positioning.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study of 63 patients (64 hips) undergoing primary THA.
- Two surgeons attempted to identify and utilize the TAL for acetabular component orientation.
- Control group received free-hand cup positioning; anteversion measured radiographically.
Main Results:
- The TAL was identified in only 47% of hips (30/64).
- Identification was less frequent in patients with inferior acetabular osteophytes.
- Acetabular component positioning accuracy was not improved by using the TAL.
Conclusions:
- The TAL is not routinely identifiable during primary THA.
- Utilizing the TAL for acetabular component orientation does not enhance accuracy compared to free-hand positioning.
Related Concept Videos
01:10Ankle Joint
The ankle is formed by the talocrural joint (crural = leg). It consists of the articulations between the talus bone of the foot and the distal ends of the tibia and fibula of the leg. The superior aspect of the talus bone is square-shaped and has three areas of articulation. The top of the talus articulates with the inferior tibia. This is the portion of the ankle joint that carries the body weight between the leg and foot. The sides of the talus are firmly held in position by the articulations...
01:16Bones of the Lower Limb: Femur and Patella
The femur is the body's longest and strongest bone spanning the thigh region. Its head articulates with the acetabulum of the hip bone to form the hip joint. A minor indentation on the medial side of the femoral head, called the fovea capitis, serves as the site of attachment for the ligament of the head of the femur. This weak ligament spans the femur and acetabulum and supports the hip joint. The narrowed region below the head is the neck of the femur. The inclination angle between the neck...