Infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve: A review

J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol. 2021 Apr;65(2):195-200. doi: 10.1111/1754-9485.13141. Epub 2021 Jan 27.

Abstract

Iatrogenic injury to the infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve (IPBSN) is an uncommon but important complication of both open and arthroscopic procedures causing neuropathic pain symptoms in the anteromedial aspect of the knee. Whilst the use of ultrasound in the assessment of peripheral neuropathies is well-established, sonographic knowledge in the routine assessment of the IPBSN remains poor. We describe the sonographic assessment of the IPBSN by means of a review article, promulgating radiology's role in providing anatomical information pertaining to the IPBSN and its relationship to adjacent anatomical structures, surgical fixations or fibrous scar tissue.

Keywords: infrapatellar; knee; nerve; post-operative; ultrasound.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arthroscopy
  • Humans
  • Knee
  • Knee Joint / diagnostic imaging
  • Peripheral Nervous System Diseases* / diagnostic imaging
  • Ultrasonography