Anatomic Study of the Compression Syndromes of Common Peroneal Nerve

Objective To provide anatomical data for the diagnosis and treatment of entrapment of common peroneal nerves.Methods The line feed and the positions of the branch of the common peroneal nerve were detected on 50 sides of the lower extremities in adult cadavers.Results The common peroneal nerve is in the compact lateral sulcus of popliteal fossa before it goes penetrating into the peroneal tunnel;the length of the lateral sulcus of popliteal fossa is 82.5±2.3mm.In the peroneal tunnel,the common peroneal nerve closely adherent with the periosteum of the neck of fibula is 23.5±1.7mm,and the length of the peroneal tunnel is 26.5±1.5mm.The side of the common peroneal nerve is divided into the superficial and deep peroneal nerve,42% of which is before it goes into the peroneal tunnel,and 58% is in the peroneal tunnel.Conclusion The compact lateral sulcus of popliteal fossa and the common peroneal nerve closely adherent with the periosteum of peroneal neck in the narrow peroneal tunnel are the easily compressing anatomic side of the common peroneal nerve.