What are the layers of the superficial fascia in the anterior thigh?

The superficial fascia has two distinct layers: a superficial fatty layer and a deep membranous layer. The membranous layer is continuous with Scarpa’s fascia of the abdomen and fuses with the deep fascia (fascia lata) along Holden’s line.

Which cutaneous nerves supply the anterior thigh, and what are their key functions?

Seven nerves from the lumbar plexus innervate the anterior thigh skin, including the ilioinguinal nerve (supplies upper medial thigh and genitalia), lateral cutaneous nerve of thigh (supplies anterolateral thigh), and saphenous nerve (supplies medial leg and knee). These nerves pierce the fascia lata and contribute to the patellar plexus.

What is the clinical significance of the lateral cutaneous nerve of the thigh?

Compression of the lateral cutaneous nerve of the thigh at the inguinal ligament can cause meralgia paresthetica, leading to numbness or burning sensations on the lateral thigh. This condition may require surgical decompression in severe cases.

How does the great saphenous vein relate to the superficial fascia of the thigh?

The great saphenous vein ascends through the superficial fascia along the medial thigh and terminates by piercing the cribriform fascia to enter the femoral vein at the saphenous opening. It receives tributaries like the superficial epigastric and external pudendal veins.

What are the superficial inguinal lymph nodes, and how are they organized?

The superficial inguinal lymph nodes form a T-shaped pattern with two sets: an upper horizontal set (below the inguinal ligament, divided into lateral and medial groups) and a lower vertical set (along the great saphenous vein). They drain into deep inguinal nodes via the saphenous opening.

What arteries supply the skin of the anterior thigh through the superficial fascia?

Three superficial branches of the femoral artery pierce the cribriform fascia to supply the skin: the superficial external pudendal artery (supplies external genitalia), superficial epigastric artery (ascends toward the umbilicus), and superficial circumflex iliac artery (runs laterally below the inguinal ligament).

Superficial Fascia of Thigh – Veins, Nerves & Lymph Nodes