Macro-anatomical Investigations on the Plexus Lumbosacralis of the Aksaray Malakli Dog

Background: In this study, cadavers of 5 adult Aksaray Malakli breed dogs were used to examine the structure of the lumbosacral plexus, which provides innervation of the hindlimb and pelvic region.  Objectives: This study aimed to determine the nerve root composition of the lumbosacral plexus, determine the branching patterns, map the nerve directions macro-anatomically, and collect data for future comparisons with similar breeds. Methods: The corpses were kept in a formaldehyde pool (10%) for 14 days. After this period, the anatomical area was dissected using appropriate techniques to identify the lumbosacral plexus nerves and roots. The course and origin of the nerves forming the plexus were identified and photographed.  Results: In all 5 cadavers, the lumbosacral plexus originated from the L4-S3 nerves. The plexus comprised n. ischiadicus, n. tibialis, n. obturatorius, n. femoralis, n. saphenous, n. pelvini, n. pudendus, n. cutaneus femoris caudalis, n. peroneus communis, and n. gluteus caudalis.  Conclusion: It was determined that n. femoralis was formed from the ventral branches of the L4 and L5 nerves and the cranial branch of the L6 nerve. N. obturatorius originated from the caudal branch of L5 and the ventral branch of L6. It was determined that n. ischiadicus originated from the L6 caudal, L7 and ventral branch of S1 nerves. The femur branched into n. tibialis and n. peroneus communis (n. fibularis) at the level of extremitas distalis.