Femoral Nerve in Femoral Triangle: A Morphometric Study with Clinical Relevance

• Published in: Journal of Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences University Vol. 9; no. 3; pp. 65 - 71
• Main Authors: Nandini P. Bhat, Cheryl R. Lewis, Vanishri S. Nayak, Lydia S. Andrade
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Karad 01-07-2020
• Subjects: anterior superior iliac spine; femoral nerve block; inguinal ligament; morphometry; pubic tubercle
• ISSN: 2231-4261; 2231-4261

Background: Femoral nerve is a nerve of choice for femoral nerve blockade. It enters the femoral triangle at the midinguinal point. However, this point of entry need not be the same always. Aim and Objectives: This study is aimed at measuring the morphometry of the femoral nerve with the help of bony landmarks. Material and methods: Forty adult lower limbs were dissected and the morphometry of the femoral nerve was studied. Results: The mean distance from the Anterior Superior Iliac Spine (ASIS) to the pubic tubercle was 12.66 ± 1.48 cm. We found the FN from the ASIS at a mean distance of 6.38 ± 1.45 cm. Also, the FN was at a mean distance of 6.76 ± 1.12 cm from the pubic tubercle. The mean length of the FN trunk below the inguinal ligament, i.e., in the femoral triangle before the division was 2.19 ± 0.34 cm. However, in 8 lower limbs, the FN trunk was divided before entering the femoral triangle. Conclusion: The findings of our study serve as an enabling guide to the surgeons, neurologists and anesthetist's in detecting the FN for various clinical and surgical procedures.