Ligament
Ligament of the ovary
A short connection between ovary and uterus
High-yield
Ovarian ligament connects ovary to uterus; suspensory ligament connects the ovarian pedicle toward the pelvic wall and carries the main ovarian vessels.
Overview
The ovarian ligament joins the uterine end of the ovary to the uterus just below the tubal attachment. It is a fibromuscular remnant of the gubernaculum. Its location behind the round ligament helps distinguish the two attachments at the uterine horn.
Reference facts
- Attachments
- From the uterine pole of the ovary to the uterine wall just inferior and posterior to the uterotubal junction.
- Function
- Limits ovarian movement relative to the uterus and conveys small vascular and lymphatic connections.
- Clinical point
- Forms part of the mobile adnexal attachment system involved in ovarian torsion; its lymphatics also connect ovarian and pelvic drainage.
Clinical correlation
Rotation of the adnexa can twist tissue between the ovarian and suspensory attachments. The resulting venous obstruction and swelling may progress to arterial compromise in adnexal torsion.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the ligament of the ovary attach?
From the uterine pole of the ovary to the uterine wall just inferior and posterior to the uterotubal junction.
What does the ligament of the ovary do?
Limits ovarian movement relative to the uterus and conveys small vascular and lymphatic connections.
Why does the ligament of the ovary matter clinically?
Forms part of the mobile adnexal attachment system involved in ovarian torsion; its lymphatics also connect ovarian and pelvic drainage.