Oblique or short incisions reduce the risk of saphenous nerve damage during hamstrings harvesting: A model for mapping nerve pathways at the harvest site

Abstract

Introduction

Hamstring autografts are frequently used for ligament reconstruction surgery. Between 12% and 84% of patients report hypoesthesia or dysaesthesia secondary to injury of the saphenous nerve or one of its branches after hamstring harvesting. Type of incision (orientation and length) is subject of much regarding limiting the risk of nerve damage. A cadaveric study was performed to determine which type of incision limits the risk of injury to the saphenous nerve or one of its branches, based on an anatomic model for mapping nerve pathways at the harvest site.

Methods

An anatomical study was performed on 20 knees from 12 embalmed bodies. Distance between saphenous nerve branches and 4 points of interest along the tibial crest was measured. Based on these measurements, a digital model of the saphenous nerve and its branches was created. A model of three common types of incision (vertical, horizontal and oblique) was overlaid. Each incision was modeled for three lengths (2, 3, and 4 ​cm). Percentage of collision between nerve course model and incision model was then calculated to determine the risk of nerve damage for each type of incision. Based on the nerve course model, a ‘low-collision-risk’ safe zone was identified.

Results

Nerve damage risk after an oblique incision was significantly lower than for a horizontal or vertical incision, for incision lengths of 3 and 4 ​cm (p ​< ​0.05). For a specific incision orientation, the length of the incision did not affect the risk of nerve damage. A trapezoidal space close to the tibial crest and distal to the anterior tibial tuberosity appears to reduce risk of nerve damage.

Conclusion

This cadaveric study suggests that during hamstring harvesting, incisions shorter than 2 ​cm reduce the risk of saphenous nerve's branches injuries. For incisions longer than 2 ​cm, using an oblique incision may reduce the risk compared to vertical or horizontal incisions.

Level of evidence

Level of evidence not applicable: Laboratory experiments.