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  • Presentation

Exploring Leg & Foot Anatomy for Mohs Surgeons

Description

In this session, Dr. Sama Carly provides an in-depth overview of the anatomy of the leg and foot, specifically for Mohs surgeons. With her extensive background from esteemed institutions, she guides participants through the lower leg anatomy, emphasizing the importance of understanding muscular and neurovascular structures deeply situated, unlike in the head and neck region where vital nerves are more superficial. She highlights significant anatomical landmarks like the femoral triangle and the popliteal fossa, as well as discusses potential dangers posed by nerves at the medial and lateral malleoli. Dr. Carly emphasizes using the anatomy knowledge to confidently excise tumors while minimizing complications to surrounding structures, advocating for the use of local and regional anesthesia, particularly focusing on ankle and metatarsal blocks instead of traditional methods to avoid collateral damage and improve patient outcomes. The session concludes with practical tips on nerve targeting for effective anesthesia and avoiding the use of contraindicated techniques. Overall, the presentation serves as both a refresher on anatomy and a guide for improving surgical practice in Mohs surgery of the lower extremities.

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Conclusions

  • Understanding lower limb anatomy is crucial for effective surgical intervention in Mohs surgery.
  • Motor innervation in the lower leg is supplied by deep nerves, emphasizing the need for surgeons to be knowledgeable of anatomical pathways.
  • The femoral triangle is a key anatomic danger point where vascular bundles are located deeper than in the head and neck, offering a surgical safety margin.
  • Surgeons should be cautious around the popliteal fossa and the common perineal nerve to prevent complications like foot drop.
  • Consent with patients regarding sensory nerve outcomes is necessary to manage expectations post-surgery.
  • In the ankle and foot region, local anesthesia can be effectively used, with metatarsal blocks being preferred over traditional digital blocks to minimize collateral circulation damage.
  • Epinephrine can be safely used in local anesthesia to enhance effects and reduce the need for tourniquets during procedures.
  • Sabotta Clinical Atlas of Human Anatomy
  • Mayo Clinic Department of Clinical Anatomy