Abstract

Background and Objectives: The lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) of the thigh arises from the dorsal branches of the second and third lumbar ventral rami. Several variations in the formation, course and branches of this nerve have been reported. The regional anatomy of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve is highly varied and may account for its susceptibility to local trauma. Knowledge of these variations is important for surgeons to avoid injury to the nerve. The aim of this study was to evaluate the variations in the formation of LFCN of the thigh and to discuss its clinical implications. Materials And Methods: The study was conducted on 25(50 sides) adult human cadavers in the Department of Anatomy, Sri Siddhartha Medical College, Tumkur, Karnataka, India by dissection method. The LFCN was looked for, bilaterally, and its formation studied. The specimens were numbered and photographed. Results: In the present study, the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve of thigh arising from dorsal divisions of L2 L3 was observed in 34(68%) specimens. Variations in LFCN were observed in 16 specimens. The variations encountered were the absence of LFCN (2%), the origin of LFCN from ventral ramus of L1 spinal nerve (2%), the origin of LFCN from ventral rami of L1 L2 spinal nerves (8%), the origin of LFCN as a branch of femoral nerve (20%). Conclusion: The present study highlights the necessity for a thorough knowledge of the topographical features of the LFCN so as to increase the efficacy of diagnosis, reduce complications and increase patient comfort.

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