Lumbosacral plexus

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== Lumbosacral Plexus ==

The lumbosacral plexus is a network of nerves that supplies the lower limbs, pelvis, and perineum. It is formed by the anterior rami of the spinal nerves from the lumbar (L1-L4) and sacral (L4-S4) regions of the spinal cord. The lumbosacral plexus is divided into the lumbar plexus and the sacral plexus.

Lumbar Plexus

The lumbar plexus is formed by the anterior rami of the L1-L4 spinal nerves. It is located within the psoas major muscle and innervates the anterior and medial compartments of the thigh. Major nerves arising from the lumbar plexus include:

• Femoral nerve
• Obturator nerve
• Lateral cutaneous nerve of the thigh
• Iliohypogastric nerve
• Ilioinguinal nerve
• Genitofemoral nerve

Sacral Plexus

The sacral plexus is formed by the anterior rami of the L4-S4 spinal nerves. It is located on the posterior wall of the pelvis, in front of the piriformis muscle. The sacral plexus innervates the posterior compartment of the thigh, most of the leg, and the foot. Major nerves arising from the sacral plexus include:

• Sciatic nerve
• Pudendal nerve
• Superior gluteal nerve
• Inferior gluteal nerve
• Posterior cutaneous nerve of the thigh
• Nerve to quadratus femoris
• Nerve to obturator internus

Clinical Significance

Injuries to the lumbosacral plexus can result in significant neurological deficits, affecting motor and sensory functions of the lower limbs. Common causes of lumbosacral plexopathy include trauma, tumors, diabetes mellitus, and childbirth. Symptoms may include pain, weakness, numbness, and tingling in the affected areas.

See Also

• Peripheral nervous system
• Spinal cord
• Nerve plexus
• Lower limb anatomy

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