The course of the superficial peroneal nerve: an anatomical cadaver study

Abstract

The superficial peroneal nerve's branch patterns and the relationships of the nerve to fixed anatomical landmarks about the ankle were studied in 30 cadaver lower limbs. Two different branching patterns, in addition to the one considered as ‘normal anatomy’, were observed. In type A (73%) the nerve pierced the crural fascia proximal to the ankle joint and then divided into two major branches; the medial and intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerves. However, in type B (13%) and type C (10%) the branches arose independently from the superficial peroneal nerve. The main difference among the three types was the course of the intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerve. In conclusion, foot and ankle surgeons should be familiar with the variations in the course of the superficial peroneal nerve and its branches and especially of the ones that are ‘at risk’ during the surgical exposures of the ankle.