Anatomical variations of the tibial nerve and their clinical correlation

Abstract

The tibial nerve is a branch of the sciatic nerve, which innervates the legs and feet. Anatomical variations of this nerve at the ankle are commonly found. The variation of the tibial nerve in its branching point and cross-sectional area (CSA) at the ankle is commonly related to clinical condition such as foot neuropathy. Knowledge of these variations can support the clinician in making appropriate clinical decisions. This review aims at providing knowledge on the anatomical variations of tibial nerve at ankle, as well as its clinical correlation. This review outlined the variation of the terminal branching point and CSA of the tibial nerve at the ankle in cadaveric and clinical studies.