The functional and surgical relevance of the iliocapsularis muscle: an anatomical review

Abstract

The iliocapsularis muscle covers the anterior aspect of the hip joint capsule. Although its anatomy has been described

through cadaveric and radiologic studies, its true function is unknown. The iliocapsularis could be involved in preventing

anterior synovial impingement, a possibility supported by electromyography studies. Moreover, hypertrophy of the iliocapsularis

caused by hip dysplasia supports the proposal that it stabilizes the anterior aspect of the joint capsule. This review discusses

the clinical relevance of the iliocapsularis.

Keywords

• hip dysplasia; iliocapsularis; iliacus minor; iliotrochantericus; rectus femoris; stability

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