Which ligament attaches the ovary to the lateral pelvic wall and contains the ovarian vessels?

Explanation

## Ovarian Ligaments and Support Structures ### Suspensory Ligament of Ovary (Infundibulopelvic Ligament) **Key Point:** The suspensory ligament of the ovary is a fold of peritoneum that extends from the ovary superolaterally to the lateral pelvic wall at the level of the iliac vessels. It is the primary vascular pedicle of the ovary. **High-Yield:** This ligament contains: - Ovarian artery (branch of abdominal aorta) - Ovarian vein - Ovarian nerve plexus - Lymphatic vessels ### Comparison of Ovarian Support Structures | Ligament | Attachment | Contents | Function | |----------|-----------|----------|----------| | Suspensory ligament (infundibulopelvic) | Ovary to lateral pelvic wall (iliac vessels) | Ovarian vessels, nerves, lymphatics | Vascular supply and support | | Ovarian ligament (proper ovarian ligament) | Ovary to uterus | Smooth muscle fibers | Connects ovary to uterine fundus | | Broad ligament | Uterus to lateral pelvic wall | Fallopian tube, ovary, vessels | Peritoneal fold; mesentery | | Cardinal ligament | Uterus to lateral pelvic wall | Uterine vessels, nerves | Supports uterus | **Clinical Pearl:** During oophorectomy or hysterectomy, the suspensory ligament must be identified and ligated first to control the ovarian vessels and prevent hemorrhage. **Mnemonic:** **SILO** — Suspensory ligament = Iliac vessels & Lateral pelvic wall Ovarian vessels [cite:Gray's Anatomy 42e]