See it in 3D!: Researchers examined structural links between the cardinal and uterosacral ligaments

Abstract

Support of the uterus and upper vagina is one of the most critical factors in the cause of pelvic organ prolapse. 1 Summers A. Winkel L.A. Hussain H.K. DeLancey J.O. The relationship between anterior and apical compartment support. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2006; 194: 1438-1443 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (174) Google Scholar , 2 Rooney K. Kenton K. Mueller E.R. FitzGerald M.P. Brubaker L. Advanced anterior vaginal wall prolapse is highly correlated with apical prolapse. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2006; 195: 1837-1840 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (189) Google Scholar This apical or level-1 support is provided by the cardinal and uterosacral ligaments. 3 DeLancey J.O. Anatomic aspects of vaginal eversion after hysterectomy. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1992; 166: 1717-1724 Abstract Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (747) Google Scholar Cadaver dissection has provided a rich body of useful information about these structures, but anatomic observations are limited by distortions because of embalming artifacts and the advanced age of most specimens. 4 Campbell R.M. The anatomy and histology of the sacrouterine ligaments. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1950; 59: 1-12 PubMed Scopus (113) Google Scholar , 5 Range R.L. Woodburne R.T. The gross and microscopic anatomy of the transverse cervical ligament. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1964; 90: 460-467 PubMed Scopus (72) Google Scholar , 6 Buller J.L. Thompson J.R. Cundiff G.W. et al. Uterosacral ligament: description of anatomic relationships to optimize surgical safety. Obstet Gynecol. 2001; 97: 873-879 Crossref PubMed Scopus (125) Google Scholar The editors welcome submissions to this section. Please see the Information for Authors at www.AJOG.org. The editors welcome submissions to this section. Please see the Information for Authors at www.AJOG.org.