Nerve entrapment after Pfannenstiel incision

Area of Science:

• Surgical complications
• Pain management
• Nerve entrapment syndromes

Background:

• Pfannenstiel incision is a common surgical approach for gynecological procedures.
• Nerve entrapment can occur iatrogenically after abdominal surgery.
• Iliohypogastric nerve injury is a potential complication of lower abdominal incisions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present cases of iliohypogastric nerve entrapment after Pfannenstiel incision.
• To discuss the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of this complication.
• To review strategies for preventing iliohypogastric nerve entrapment.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of nine patients diagnosed with iliohypogastric nerve entrapment over 16 months.
• Analysis of diagnostic methods, including clinical examination and diagnostic blocks.
• Evaluation of treatment outcomes, including nerve blocks, surgical interruption, and injections.

Main Results:

• Nine cases of iliohypogastric nerve entrapment were identified post-Pfannenstiel incision.
• Three patients achieved complete relief with nerve blocks alone.
• Four patients required surgical nerve interruption for complete relief; two had significant relief with injections.

Conclusions:

• Iliohypogastric nerve entrapment is a recognized complication of the Pfannenstiel incision.
• Nerve blocks and surgical interruption are effective treatment options.
• Awareness and proper surgical technique are crucial for prevention.