The aim of this study was to determine the in-depth anatomical location of the neurovascular structures important for nerve block. Forty fresh specimens from 22 adult Korean cadavers were used for this study. The average angle and depth of the bifurcation point of the sciatic nerve (BC) was 18.7±3.6° and 20.6±7.1 mm, respectively. The point where the nerve branching point out for the muscles on the posterior compartment of leg were expressed in percentage distance relative to the vertical distance from popliteal crease to BC. The medial and lateral sural cutaneous nerve for 129.0% and 116.4%, medial and lateral head of gastrocnemius for 137.2% and 141.9%, the soleus for 179.5%, the deep compartment of leg for 167.0%. Our results provide detailed anatomical information to guide optimal nerve block.

KEY WORDS Popliteal block; Nerve block; Blind injection; Perineurium; Anatomical study.