Cadaveric dissection study (n = 20 embalmed knees) using computer-assisted anatomy mapping to characterize the topographic course, branching pattern, and location-dependent direction of the infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve across the anteromedial knee — with the goal of defining safer incision strategies for common knee procedures.
When planning any anteromedial knee incision — ACL graft harvest, tibial nailing entry, bursectomy, or arthroplasty.
Orient your cut parallel to the nerve's direction at that specific location rather than defaulting to longitudinal: oblique (–45°) at the tibial tuberosity level, and horizontal medial to the patellar apex.
If you must use a longitudinal incision, recognize that you are crossing nearly every fiber of the infrapatellar plexus, and counsel patients accordingly about anterior knee numbness.
Cadaveric dissection study (n = 20 embalmed knees) using computer-assisted anatomy mapping to characterize the topographic course, branching pattern, and location-dependent direction of the infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve across the anteromedial knee — with the goal of defining safer incision strategies for common knee procedures.
When planning any anteromedial knee incision — ACL graft harvest, tibial nailing entry, bursectomy, or arthroplasty.
Orient your cut parallel to the nerve's direction at that specific location rather than defaulting to longitudinal: oblique (–45°) at the tibial tuberosity level, and horizontal medial to the patellar apex.
If you must use a longitudinal incision, recognize that you are crossing nearly every fiber of the infrapatellar plexus, and counsel patients accordingly about anterior knee numbness.