The cutaneous branch of the obturator nerve arises from the anterior division, passing between adductor longus and gracilis to supply a variable area of medial thigh skin in the distal third. Its territory is inconstant and may overlap with the medial femoral cutaneous nerve.
The obturator cutaneous branch is an important diagnostic landmark in obturator nerve assessment. Medial thigh numbness in the distal third suggests obturator nerve involvement, distinguishing it from femoral neuropathy (anterior thigh) and adductor canal syndrome (saphenous distribution). It is blocked during adductor canal block for knee surgery to address medial thigh pain. Injury occurs during obturator hernia repair and pelvic node dissection.
Medial distal thigh numbness from obturator nerve injury during pelvic surgery, total hip arthroplasty, or obturator hernia repair, usually resolving spontaneously over 3-6 months.
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