During the ilioinguinal surgical approach for fixation of an anterior column acetabular fracture, which structure is MOST commonly injured?

• A Femoral nerve
• B Obturator nerve
• C Lateral femoral cutaneous nerve ✓
• D Iliohypogastric nerve

Explanation

The lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (L2-L3) is the structure most commonly injured during the ilioinguinal approach, typically during the first window or when retracting the iliacus. It courses over the iliacus muscle near the anterior superior iliac spine. Injury results in meralgia paresthetica (numbness/tingling over the lateral thigh). The femoral nerve and obturator nerve are less commonly injured with proper technique.

Reference: Skeletal Trauma, 6th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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