Transtendinous course of the infrapatellar branch of saphenous nerve. A contribution to the aetiology of entrapment neuropathy and modification of the existing classification.

BACKGROUND: The course of the infrapatellar branch of saphenous nerve (IPBSN) in relation to the Sartorius muscle has been classified into presartorial, transsartorial and retrosartorial types. Mechanical compression of the IPBSN within the Sartorius tendon has been surgically recognised as a cause of entrapment neuropathy. Purpose of the present study was to differentiate the IPBSNs penetrating the Sartorius tendon from those penetrating the Sartorius muscle, from an anatomical and clinical point of views and thus modifying the existing classification.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The IPBSN was bilaterally dissected in 27 cadavers. The cases of the IPBSNs penetrating the Sartorius tendon were recorded separately from those penetrating the Sartorius muscle belly.

RESULTS: In 11 out of 54 limbs (20.4%) the IPBSN ran through the Sartorius muscle belly. In 3 out of 54 (5.6%) limbs, the IPBSN penetrated the Sartorius tendon.

CONCLUSIONS: The penetrating type of IPBSN includes two distinct subtypes: the muscle-penetrating type and the tendon-penetrating type. These subtypes are also distinct from a clinical point of view, since only the tendon-penetrating type has been associated with the IPBSN entrapment neuropathy. According to these findings we suggest a modification of the current classification. Further clinical studies are necessary to fully demonstrate whether the tendon-penetrating type should be considered as a predisposing factor for the IPBSN entrapment neuropathy. Distinguishing the two subtypes might be helpful for that purpose.