The dissection of lower limb, like that of the upper limb, is best approached compartmentally since the compartments contain muscles with similar functions and similar innervation. Compare and contrast the anatomy of the lower limb with that of the upper limb. It will be a good review.

Basic concepts:
You may wish to review the basic concepts for the lower limb at this time. The link opens a new window which you will need to close to return to this page.

Specific Learning Objectives:

1. Define the venous drainage (both superficial and deep).
2. Recall the cutaneous innervation of the region. Compare and contrast a dermatome and the cutaneous innervation of specific nerves.
3. Describe the relationships of structures found in the femoral triangle.
4. List all of the components of the lumbar-sacral plexus.
5. Illustrate that each part the thigh and gluteus have compartments formed by the deep fascia.
6. Summarize the functions of muscles in each of the compartments. Knowing the functions helps you learn the attachments (origins and insertions) of individual muscles?
7. Recall which spinal segments contribute to each peripheral nerve (e.g., femoral = L2,3,4).
8. Describe the innervation of each compartment and the specific deficits that occur with lesions of individual nerves at different parts along the course of each nerve. What actions will test the femoral, obturator, superior gluteal, inferior gluteal, ischiadic, common peroneal nerve functions? Where can the above nerves be checked for sensory loss?
9. Describe the vascular pattern and major arteries and the major anastomoses around the hip joint.
10. Describe the lymphatic drainage in this area?
11. Identify anatomic structures in radiographic studies including X-ray, CT scans and MRI films.

Difficult parts of the dissection:

1. Be careful when dissecting the femoral triangle not to destroy the femoral sheath before you have demonstrated the femoral canal. See Step 2. This is important because it is an area for herniation.