Minimally Invasive Approaching in Hip Surgery—An Anatomical Investigation of 20 Specimens

Background and objectives: Based on the preparation of 20 formalin-fixed anatomical cadavers, the feasibility of the anterior, minimally invasive approach to the hip joint was investigated in each side of the body. The hypothesis of the study was that the Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve can be spared under the use of this approach. Materials and Methods: The anterior approach to the hip was performed via an incision of 8 cm. The position of the nerve was noticed in relation to the skin incision, and the distance was measured in millimeters. The nerves main, gluteal and femoral trunk were distinguished and investigated for injury. Results: No injury of the main trunk was noticed. The average distance of the main trunk to the skin incision was 14.9 and 15.05 mm in the medial direction, respectively (p < 0.001). Injury of the gluteal branch has to be considered at an overall rate of 40%. Conclusions: The anterior, minimally invasive approach to the hip joint can be performed without injury of the Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve.

DIVERSE ANATOMICAL CONFIGURATION OF ILIOINGUINAL NERVE IN RELATION TO LATERAL FEMORAL CUTANEOUS NERVE: A CASE REPORT

The variability in the formation of Ilioinguinal nerve has been documented in the literature especially related to iliohypogastric nerve. But so far very few cadaveric studies have been documented on variation in the branches of ilioinguinal nerve. A case presented which demonstrates aberrancy of its anatomic position. Although the course of ilioinguinal nerve has been well known, nostudies or report have demonstrated a course in relation to lateral femoral cutaneous nerve. This case report serves as a warning to the surgeon to be aware of such bizarre presentation since the consequences of iatrogenic injury to such structures may be serious.