New insights on anatomical study of the accessory deep peroneal nerve

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to establish the incidence, course, relations and distribution of the accessory deep peroneal nerve.  Thirty-two legs of different adult’s cadavers of both sexes were dissected. The analysis of the incidence, course, relations and distribution was performed. The frequency obtained was 87,5% (28 legs). The course was constant in 82% (23 cases), with five variations. The relations with the lateral malleolus and the sural nerve were found in all limbs. The accessory deep peroneal nerve gave off branches to the peroneus brevis muscle in all legs, to the peroneus longus muscle in 21,4% and to the extensor digitorum brevis in 25%. The accessory peroneal muscles were always innervated by this branch. Articular branches were observed in all legs. The frequency observed in the study was high (87,5%) and the course and relations were constant. The distribution includes to the lateral compartment, accessory peroneal muscles and to the ankle and tarsal joints and frequently for the extensor digitorum brevis muscle (25%).