Question

Which structure(s) passes behind the inguinal ligament?

• A. Femoral branch of genitofemoral nerve
• B. Femoral vein
• C. Psoas major
• D. All

Hint:

Psoas major, femoral vein and the femoral branch of genitofemoral nerve all pass deep to the inguinal ligament.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: The space deep to the inguinal ligament is divided by the iliopectineal arch into a lateral muscular compartment and a medial vascular compartment, and several structures pass from the abdomen into the thigh through this gap.

Step 2: Through the muscular compartment pass the psoas major (with the iliacus), the femoral nerve and the lateral cutaneous nerve of the thigh. Through the vascular compartment pass the femoral artery and femoral vein within the femoral sheath.

Step 3: The femoral branch of the genitofemoral nerve also passes behind the inguinal ligament, running in front of or within the femoral sheath to supply skin over the femoral triangle.

Step 4: Since the femoral branch of the genitofemoral nerve, the femoral vein and the psoas major all pass behind the inguinal ligament, the correct answer is All.