Cardinal ligament
Major ligament of the uterus
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The cardinal ligament is a paired structure on the lateral side of the uterus. It originates from the lateral part of the cervix.
Attachments
It attaches the cervix to the lateral pelvic wall by its attachment to the obturator fascia of the obturator internus muscle. It attaches to the uterosacral ligament.
Relations
It is continuous externally with the fibrous tissue surrounding the pelvic blood vessels.
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Function
The cardinal ligament supports the uterus, providing lateral stability to the cervix.
Clinical significance
The cardinal ligament may be affected in hysterectomy. Due to its proximity to the ureters, a ureter can be damaged during ligation of the ligament. It is routinely cut during some uterine operations, although this can have side effects.