Levator ani nerve

Levator ani nerve is a nerve that innervates the levator ani muscle, a broad, thin muscle located on the side of the pelvis. The nerve is a branch of the pudendal nerve, which is itself a branch of the sacral plexus. The levator ani nerve plays a crucial role in the functioning of the pelvic floor, particularly in maintaining continence.

Etymology

The term "levator ani" is derived from Latin, with "levator" meaning "lifter" and "ani" referring to the "anus". Thus, the levator ani nerve, as the nerve that innervates this muscle, is so named because it controls the muscle that lifts the anus.

Anatomy

The levator ani nerve originates from the pudendal nerve, which arises from the second, third, and fourth sacral nerves (S2, S3, S4) of the sacral plexus. The nerve travels through the Alcock's canal, also known as the pudendal canal, before branching off to innervate the levator ani muscle.

Function

The primary function of the levator ani nerve is to provide motor innervation to the levator ani muscle. This muscle plays a key role in maintaining continence, as it supports the pelvic organs and helps to control the release of urine and feces. The levator ani nerve, therefore, plays a crucial role in the functioning of the pelvic floor.

Clinical significance

Damage to the levator ani nerve can result in a range of pelvic floor disorders, including fecal incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. Treatment for these conditions may involve physical therapy to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, or surgery to repair the damaged nerve or muscle.

See also

• Pudendal nerve
• Sacral plexus
• Levator ani

Levator ani nerve Resources
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