The superficial peroneal nerve is often encountered at what distance from the distal tip of the fibula?

The superficial peroneal nerve is often encountered at what distance from the distal tip of the fibula?

• A. 5-7 cm
• B. 10-12 cm
• C. 15-20 cm
• D. 2-4 cm

Answer: (B)

The superficial peroneal nerve becomes subcutaneous as it travels down the leg, typically piercing the crural fascia about 10–12 cm proximal to the distal tip of the fibula (the lateral malleolus area). This is the point at which it is readily encountered in a distal leg or near-ankle approach, so the distance from the distal fibula to where it becomes superficial is usually around 10–12 cm. Variations exist, but this 10–12 cm range is the common, dependable distance surgeons use to anticipate the nerve’s location.

The superficial peroneal nerve becomes subcutaneous as it travels down the leg, typically piercing the crural fascia about 10–12 cm proximal to the distal tip of the fibula (the lateral malleolus area). This is the point at which it is readily encountered in a distal leg or near-ankle approach, so the distance from the distal fibula to where it becomes superficial is usually around 10–12 cm. Variations exist, but this 10–12 cm range is the common, dependable distance surgeons use to anticipate the nerve’s location.