Abstract:
BACKGROUND
Established subcutaneous internal fixation techniques have shown a better quality of life with
reduced pain. However, complications still arise, with the most significant being injury of the
lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN). A novel minimally invasive modified technique, the
Bridging Infix, has been proposed; however, the safety of the LFCN during the procedure is
currently unknown. The aim of the study, therefore, was to determine the relationship between
the Bridging Infix and the LFCN.
METHOD
Fifty formalin-fixed cadaveric specimens and two fresh frozen cadaver specimens were utilised
in the study. The Bridging Infix was inserted as per the technique guide. Superficial dissection of
the surgical site was subsequently conducted. Bilateral measurements of the distance between
the LFCN and the implant as well as palpable bony landmarks were taken to determine safe
zones for implant placement.
RESULTS
Overall the LFCN was identified coursing deep to the inguinal ligament. The minimum distance
from the LFCN to the most proximal cortical screw was 18.00 mm. The mean distance from the
most proximal screw to the LFCN was 37.97 ± 12.20 mm.
CONCLUSION
The LFCN was not injured or impinged by the Bridging Infix in any of the cadaver specimens used
in this study. Thus, the surgical procedure can be considered safe if layer by layer dissection is
employed and the screws are directly inserted on the iliac crest, with no pressure being applied
within three finger breadths medial to the anterior superior iliac spine.
