139 Alternative Anatomical Landmarks for the Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve: Cadaveric Study With Implications for Difficult Decompressive Cases

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: During decompressive procedures, localizing the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) using only the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) can be difficult due to variations in nerve course and specific patient anatomy, e.g., body habitus. Therefore, the present anatomical study was performed to provide additional landmarks for localizing this nerve. METHODS: The LFCN was dissected in 30 adult cadavers (60 sides). The nerve was exposed distal to the ASIS in the proximal thigh and along an imaginary line connecting the ASIS to the midpoint of the patella with the lower limb in a neutral position. RESULTS: The main trunk of the LFCN was identified deep to the fascia lata on all sides, 5-8 cm distal to the ASIS along the ASIS-patella line. The nerve was bordered by the sartorius muscle superficially and medially, the tensor fasciae latae muscle laterally, and the proximal rectus femoris tendon on its deep surface. Proximal to this triangular region, the LFCN was found to cross superficially to the proximal sartorius muscle on 58 sides and through the muscle on two sides. CONCLUSIONS: The study findings suggest an alternative method for identifying the LFCN, which could help locate the nerve during challenging cases and reduce the incidence of iatrogenic LFCN injuries resulting from inadequate anatomical landmarks.