Unique Anatomical Variations of the Lateral Femoral Cutaneous Nerve

This case study focuses on the atypical nerve contributions and branching patterns of the lumbar plexus in two human body donors at Midwestern University. It discusses their implications for pathology and surgical outcomes. Variations were identified in the anterior rami contributions and branching patterns of the lumbar plexus in both donors, predominantly in the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN). While the typical contributions of LFCN include L2 and L3 spinal cord levels, the case donors received contributions only from L2 or from L1-L3 levels, with the nerves combining and separating multiple times before ultimately forming LFCN or multiple branches thereof. Unique branching patterns were also noted for the ilioinguinal and femoral nerves. These findings suggest that a deeper understanding of the lumbar plexus's variability is necessary to reduce the risks associated with surgical procedures in these regions, such as hip replacement, nerve block, and inguinal hernia repair, as well as the recognition and treatment of atypical nerve branch impingement. Further studies of lumbar plexus nerve contributions will be beneficial for improved clinical knowledge and reducing risks for complications.