On the morphology and frequency of Weitbrecht's retinacula in the hip joint.

The flattened band reflecting from the fibrous capsule of the hip joint to the head and neck of the femur has been firstly described as "the retinacula" by Weitbrecht in the middle of eighteenth century. In the light of present clinical aspect, the retinacula has been noticed with renewed interests because the nutrient arteries running through this retinacula are one important criterion for orthopedic reduction in the cases of femoral neck fractures. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the morphology and occurrence of this retinacula from anatomical points of view using cadavers. The results show that there are two types of retinacula: a complete band shape and posterior membranous shape. The frequency of retinacula, totaled 94.8 percent in males and 92.5 percent in females. Therefore, the presence and condition of the retinacula should be carefully examined for pre-operative status in cases of femoral neck fractures.