Anatomo-topographic aspects of the distribution of innervation sources of the coxo-femoral joint in the dog

Abstract

The study of the innervation of the coxofemoral joint in dogs is becoming increasingly topical in the treatment of hip dysplasia and other conditions that evolve in parallel. The knowledge of the topography and distribution of the nerve supply, the morphologic and structural interpretation of the sources of innervation is of essential anatomic-clinical and therapeutic interest in dogs with hip dysplasia and arthrosis, especially senile dogs with joint dysfunction accompanied by pain and functional disorders. The research was carried out in the Veterinary Medical Center of the Technical University of Moldova, using fine anatomical dissection according to Vorobiov, V.P. (1958) and the Erlich-Dogel staining method, on 26 coxo-femoral joints from 13 canine cadavers of different breeds, ages and sex. The methodology included macroscopic and microscopic techniques to reveal nerve tracts. The results show that the innervation of the coxo-femoral joint derives from the Plexus lumbalis caudalis (L3-L6) and the Plexus sacralis cranialis (S1-S2), forming a complex lumbosacral plexus. The main nerves involved are: N. femoralis (L4-L5), cranioventrally innervating the joint capsule; N. obturatorius (L4-L6), with caudoventral fibers; N. gluteus cranialis (L6-S1), distributing craniolateral branches and N. ischiadicus (L6-S2), contributing dorsocaudally. These somatic fibers also have a vasomotor role, being satellites of blood vessels. Contrary to other studies, the N. gluteus caudalis has not been identified as a source of innervation of the coxo-femoral joint capsule in the dog. The data obtained provide a detailed topography of the nerve tracts, essential for surgical interventions and nerve blocks. This information has major clinical implications, facilitating the management of hip dysplasia and arthrosis in dogs through precise treatments based on a thorough understanding of joint innervation.