Iliac (nerve) plexus

Iliac artery bifurcation and aorta

Iliac (nerve) plexus

The iliac (nerve) plexus is a network of nerves located in the pelvic region. It is primarily responsible for the innervation of the lower abdominal wall, the pelvic organs, and the lower limbs. The iliac plexus is formed by the anterior rami of the lumbar spinal nerves, specifically from the L1 to L4 vertebrae, and it also receives contributions from the T12 nerve.

Anatomy

The iliac plexus is situated in the posterior part of the pelvis, near the iliac fossa. It is closely associated with the lumbar plexus, which is a similar network of nerves that supplies the lower back and the lower limbs. The iliac plexus gives rise to several important nerves, including the iliohypogastric nerve, the ilioinguinal nerve, the genitofemoral nerve, the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, and the femoral nerve.

Branches

• Iliohypogastric nerve: This nerve provides sensory innervation to the skin of the lower abdomen and the upper part of the buttocks.
• Ilioinguinal nerve: It supplies sensation to the skin of the groin and the upper part of the inner thigh.
• Genitofemoral nerve: This nerve has two branches, the genital branch and the femoral branch. The genital branch supplies the cremaster muscle and the skin of the scrotum or labia majora, while the femoral branch provides sensation to the skin of the upper anterior thigh.
• Lateral femoral cutaneous nerve: It supplies sensation to the skin on the lateral part of the thigh.
• Femoral nerve: This is the largest branch of the iliac plexus and it innervates the muscles of the anterior compartment of the thigh, as well as providing sensory innervation to the skin of the anterior and medial thigh.

Function

The primary function of the iliac plexus is to provide motor and sensory innervation to the lower abdominal wall, the pelvic organs, and the lower limbs. It plays a crucial role in movements and sensations of the lower body, including walking, running, and maintaining balance.

Clinical Significance

Damage or injury to the iliac plexus can result in a variety of symptoms, including pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower abdomen, pelvis, and lower limbs. Conditions such as lumbar plexopathy, pelvic fractures, and surgical complications can affect the iliac plexus. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing these conditions and preventing long-term complications.

Related Pages

• Lumbar plexus
• Sacral plexus
• Femoral nerve
• Iliohypogastric nerve
• Ilioinguinal nerve
• Genitofemoral nerve
• Lateral femoral cutaneous nerve