Abstract
The genitofemoral nerve (GFN) is a somatic nerve, arising from the upper lumbar plexus. Impairment of this nerve may result in chronic pain and dysesthesia in the inguinal region, with radiation of the pain to the genitalia (scrotum, vagina, labia majora) and anterior proximal thigh. This condition is termed genitofemoral neuralgia. It is commonly caused by blunt trauma or surgery involving the pelvis or inguinal area, including inguinal hernia repair, C section, appendectomy, and laparoscopic surgeries. GFN block (GFNB) is commonly used to diagnose and treat genitofemoral neuralgia. It is also rarely performed together with other nerve blocks to provide anesthesia for inguinal hernia repair and saphenous vein stripping. GFNB can be done using landmark technique or ultrasound guidance.
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Further Reading
Vanetti TK et al. Chapter 45 Genitofemoral Nerve Entrapment: Pelvic. Peripheral nerve entrapments, clinical diagnosis and management. Andrea M. Trescot, Springer, 2016.
Vanetti TK et al. Chapter 60 Genitofemoral Nerve Entrapment: Lower Extremity. Peripheral nerve entrapments, clinical diagnosis and management. Andrea M. Trescot, Springer, 2016.
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Zhu, X., Souza, D. (2022). Neuropathic Pain: Genitofemoral Nerve Block. In: Banik, R.K. (eds) Anesthesiology In-Training Exam Review. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-87266-3_60
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-87266-3_60
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