Iliohypogastric nerve

Origin The iliohypogastric nerve originates from the superior branch of the anterior ramus of spinal nerve L1. It also receives fibers from T12 via the subcostal nerve. It runs behind the kidneys. Just superior to the iliac crest, it pierces the posterior part of the transversus abdominis muscle and continues anteriorly in the abdominal wall between the transversus abdominis and internal oblique muscles. It divides into a lateral cutaneous branch and an anterior cutaneous branch between the transversus abdominis muscle and the internal oblique muscle. Branches Lateral cutaneous branch The lateral cutaneous branch ("iliac branch") pierces the internal oblique muscles and the external oblique muscles immediately above the iliac crest. Its fibres are instead carried on other nerves, such as the ilioinguinal nerve. == Function ==

The iliohypogastric nerve partially supplies the internal oblique muscles. It also provides sensory innervation to the superior gluteal region and part of the suprapubic region. == Clinical significance ==

The iliohypogastric nerve may be damaged at the points where it passes through the internal oblique muscle and the external oblique muscles. It is most often damaged as a result of surgical complications. It may also be damaged by a nerve lesion. ==References==