ANATOMICAL VARIATIONS IN TIBIAL NERVE BRANCHING: A DETAILED ANALYSIS FROM CADAVERIC DISSECTIONS
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Keywords
tibial nerve, anatomical variations, cadaver study, surgical implications, neuropathies, tarsal tunnel syndrome
Abstract
Introduction and Objective: The tibial nerve, a key peripheral nerve in the lower limb, plays a crucial role in sensory and motor functions of the foot. Anatomical variations in its branching can significantly influence clinical outcomes, particularly in neuropathic conditions such as tarsal tunnel syndrome. Despite its clinical importance, detailed knowledge about these variations is sparse, often leading to diagnostic challenges and surgical complications. This study aims to investigate the anatomical variations in the branching of the tibial nerve through detailed cadaveric dissections, to enhance anatomical knowledge necessary for improving diagnostic precision and surgical outcomes.
Methods: A systematic dissection of 20 lower limbs from 10 embalmed cadavers was performed. The tibial nerve was traced from 10 cm proximal to the medial malleolus to its terminal branches, noting points of bifurcation, number of branches, and their pathways.
Results: The tibial nerve bifurcated within 2 cm of the medio-malleolar-calcaneal axis in 90% of cases. However, notable deviations included more proximal bifurcations and multiple calcaneal branches, which are less commonly documented in standard anatomical texts.
Conclusion: The study underscores the presence of significant anatomical variations in the branching of the tibial nerve, suggesting a need for heightened clinical awareness and personalized approaches in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of foot neuropathies.
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Dr. Meet Krishna
Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy Late Baliram Kashyap Memorial Government Medical College, Jagdalpur, Bastar, Chattisgarh, India.
Dr. Bithika Nel Kumar
Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy Late Baliram Kashyap Memorial Government Medical College, Jagdalpur, Bastar, Chattisgarh, India.
Dr. Kushal Chakraborty
Assistant Professor, Department of Anatomy Pt. JNM Medical College, Raipur, Chattisgarh, India
Dr. Deepti Gautam
Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy Government Medical College, Mahasamund, Chattisgarh, India