Structural Properties of the Native Ligamentum Teres

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic biomechanics
• Hip joint anatomy
• Ligamentous tissue properties

Background:

• Limited research exists on the structural properties of the ligamentum teres (LT).
• Previous studies primarily focused on anatomical and histological aspects of the LT.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the structural properties of the native human ligamentum teres (LT).
• To investigate the biomechanical integrity of the LT in a cadaveric model.

Main Methods:

• Dissection of 12 human cadaveric hemipelvises to isolate the LT.
• Dynamic tensile testing to measure load, stiffness, and failure modes.
• Analysis of anatomic dimensions and structural properties.

Main Results:

• The LT exhibited a mean yield load of 75 N and ultimate failure load of 204 N.
• Common failure mechanism was tearing at the fovea capitis (75% of specimens).
• Mean linear stiffness was 16 N/mm, with an elastic modulus of 9.24 MPa.

Conclusions:

• The human LT possesses significant structural integrity, with a mean ultimate failure load of 204 N.
• Findings suggest the LT may play a crucial role in static hip joint stabilization.
• Preservation of the LT's structural integrity during surgery is recommended.