Ilioinguinal

Ilioinguinal is a term that refers to the Ilioinguinal nerve, a branch of the first lumbar nerve. It is a significant nerve in the lumbar plexus, which is a network of nerves in the lumbar region of the body. The ilioinguinal nerve provides sensory innervation to the upper part of the scrotum in males and the labia majora in females, as well as the skin of the inner thigh.

Anatomy

The ilioinguinal nerve originates from the lumbar plexus, specifically from the anterior rami of the L1 spinal nerve. It travels through the psoas major muscle, then passes obliquely across the quadratus lumborum muscle and iliacus muscle. It then travels through the inguinal canal, providing sensory innervation to the skin of the groin and genital region.

Function

The primary function of the ilioinguinal nerve is to provide sensory innervation to the upper part of the scrotum in males and the labia majora in females. It also provides sensory innervation to the skin of the inner thigh. In addition, it carries a small number of motor fibers that innervate the transversus abdominis and internal oblique muscles.

Clinical significance

Damage to the ilioinguinal nerve can result in ilioinguinal nerve entrapment, which can cause chronic pain in the groin area. This condition is often caused by surgery in the lower abdomen, such as hernia repair. Treatment options include nerve block injections, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgical removal of the nerve.

See also

• Lumbar plexus
• Inguinal canal
• Ilioinguinal nerve entrapment

Ilioinguinal Resources
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