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ligamentum

ligamentum

9.5
A band of tissue that connects bones or supports organs
  • noun
  • /ˌlɪɡəˈmɛntəm/
  • Specialized
translation icon : ligamento
  • The most significant is the ligamentum flavum, which runs within the spinal canal and "connects the anterior surface of one lamina to the posterior surface of the lamina below" (Olds, 2004, p. 120) (Figure 3).
  • ligamentum flavum

Examples

  • Blunt trauma to the thorax usually causes dissection of the ascending aorta at the area of ligamentum Botalli (aortic isthmus).

    Academic text (2016)
  • This is the removal of part of the laminae and possibly a portion of the ligamentum flavum, facet joints, and any protruding osteophytes to allow room for nerve roots and to expose the abnormal part of the disc.

    Academic text (2005)
  • The surgeon carefully examined the ligamentum flavum to ensure it was not damaged during the operation.

  • In anatomical studies, the term ligamentum is often used to describe the connective tissues that stabilize joints.

  • The ligamentum Botalli is an important structure in fetal circulation that later transforms into the ligamentum arteriosum after birth.

Synonyms

ligament
vsligamentum
  • Specialized
37 4.4

A strong band of tough tissue that connects bones

is the Latin anatomical term used in names for that tissue
lig
vsligamentum
  • Informal
9.9

A band of tissue that connects bones

is the formal Latin name used in anatomical naming rather than an abbreviation

Compounds

9.9

A round band of tissue at each side of the uterus that goes to the groin

Surface Forms

ligamentum singular
ligamenta plural

Etymology

Ligamentum comes from the Latin verb ligare 'to bind' and gives us the English words ligament and ligature. So a ligamentum is like a strong internal 'tie' or band that holds bones or supports organs together.