Correlation between invasive abdominopelvic and lower limb procedures and the detailed anatomical description of the lumbar plexus in a South African population

Abstract

In his thesis, Correlation between invasive abdominopelvic and lower limb procedures and the detailed anatomical description of the lumbar plexus in a South African population, the promovendus conducted an in-depth examination of the anatomy of the lumbar plexus. The origin, as well as the course and termination of the five terminal branches were investigated. The first aspect of the study was to observe the root values and describe the origin and abdominopelvic course of its main branches. Thereafter, distances of the nerves to clinically relevant bony landmarks were measured. Lastly, the results were correlated to current guidelines of clinical procedures performed on the pelvis and lower limb. In conclusion, the promovendus was able to support many of the techniques currently performed through detailed, quantitative anatomical descriptions and, where prudent, was able to provide recommendations to assist medical practitioners with pre-operative planning in a clinical setting.