Left-sided common peroneal nerve injury after instrumental delivery

Common peroneal nerve injury is an uncommon complication of childbirth, with the nerve being at risk of injury due to its superficial location over the fibular head. The commonest presentation includes inability to dorsiflex the ankle and toes, eversion of the foot, and sensory impairment over the lateral aspect of the calf and dorsal surface of the foot. Neuropraxia is the most common form of injury and is often transient. Diagnosis is typically made through clinical evaluation, complemented by nerve conduction studies and electromyography. Conservative management and physiotherapy usually lead to improvement over weeks. Intrapartum measures to reduce the occurrence of this injury include avoiding external pressure over the knee region, repositioning every 10-15 minutes during the second stage of labor, using lithotomy position in selected cases, employing non-motor blocking neuraxial analgesia for mobility, and protecting the patient's legs from the hard surface of the stirrups. This is case report of common peroneal nerve injury which occured following mid cavity forceps delivery.