From the Research
To find the genital branch of the genitofemoral nerve, it is essential to locate it at the deep inguinal ring, where it enters the inguinal canal, and then identify its course within the spermatic cord, as described in the study by 1. When searching for the genital branch of the genitofemoral nerve, consider the following key points:
- The nerve emerges from the genitofemoral nerve and travels downward and laterally to pass through the deep inguinal ring into the inguinal canal.
- In males, it accompanies the spermatic cord, supplying the cremaster muscle and scrotal skin, while in females, it travels with the round ligament to innervate the labia majora.
- During surgical procedures like hernia repairs, careful dissection around the deep inguinal ring and spermatic cord is necessary to identify and preserve this nerve, as its damage can lead to post-operative pain and sensory deficits in the genital region, as noted in the study by 2.
- The nerve's origin from L1-L2 spinal segments and its provision of both motor function to the cremaster muscle and sensory innervation to parts of the external genitalia make its identification crucial during inguinal and femoral procedures, as highlighted in the study by 3.
- It is also important to be aware of the anatomical relationships and potential variations, as discussed in the study by 4, to minimize the risk of nerve damage during surgical interventions.