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

• Main Authors: Nandini P. Bhat, Cheryl R. Lewis, Vanishri S. Nayak, Lydia S. Andrade
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences University 2020-07-01
• Series: Journal of Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences University
• Subjects: anterior superior iliac spine; femoral nerve block; inguinal ligament; morphometry; pubic tubercle
• Online Access: https://www.jkimsu.com/jkimsu-vol9no3/JKIMSU,%20Vol.%209,%20No.%203,%20July-September%202020%20Page%2065-71.pdf
• 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.