Fig. 2

Variations in the LFCN. a Classical-type LFCN. The classical type is identified as branches of the LFCN that divide at the level of the IL. b Late-type LFCN. The late type is identified as branches of the LFCN that divide after running through the IL. c Multi trunk-type LFCN. Multi trunk type is identified as several equally sized main nerve trunks. d Primary femoral-type LFCN. The primary femoral type is identified by the lack of an evident branch from the main trunk of the LFCN. Points A (red flags), B (yellow flags), C (white flags), D (orange flags), and E (blue flags) represent the ASIS, the LFCN at the level of the IL, the LFCN at the level of the thigh, the edge of the skin incision of the DAA (red lines represent the skin incision of the DAA), and the edge of the skin incision of the ALS (yellow lines represent skin incision of the ALS). ASIS, anterior superior iliac spine; ALS, anterolateral supine; DAA, direct anterior approach; IL, inguinal ligament; LFCN, lateral femoral cutaneous nerve