Suspensory ligament of ovary
Ligamentum suspensorium ovarii
Also known as: infundibulopelvic ligament, IP ligament
A peritoneal fold extending from the tubal (upper) pole of the ovary to the lateral pelvic wall over the external iliac vessels, conveying the ovarian artery, vein, lymphatics and nerves.
Overview
The suspensory ligament is the lateral upper continuation of the broad ligament where it passes over the pelvic brim. It carries the ovarian vessels, lymphatics (to para-aortic nodes) and the ovarian nerve plexus from the posterior abdominal wall down to the ovary and tube. Near the pelvic brim the ureter crosses the common or external iliac vessels just medial and deep to it.
- Location
From the upper pole of the ovary to the lateral pelvic wall at the pelvic brim.
Function
- Conveys the ovarian neurovascular bundle.
- Suspends the ovary from the pelvic wall.
Clinical significance
Oophorectomy and the ureter
The infundibulopelvic ligament is clamped to remove the ovary; the ureter lies close to it at the pelvic brim and can be injured.
Compiled from standard anatomy and physiology references — see the Reproductive System sources. For education only; not medical advice.