What is the spinal level for the accessory obturator nerve?

What is the spinal level for the accessory obturator nerve?

• A. L2, L3
• B. L3, L4
• C. L4
• D. L1, L2

Answer: (B)

The accessory obturator nerve most consistently carries fibers from the third and fourth lumbar roots. In the lumbar plexus, the main obturator nerve comes from L2–L4, but the accessory branch is a variable variant that is typically from L3–L4 (and less commonly may include L2). This is why the spinal level most often cited for the accessory obturator nerve is L3–L4. When present, it commonly supplies the pectineus muscle and can contribute to hip flexion or adduction, though its presence varies among individuals.

The accessory obturator nerve most consistently carries fibers from the third and fourth lumbar roots. In the lumbar plexus, the main obturator nerve comes from L2–L4, but the accessory branch is a variable variant that is typically from L3–L4 (and less commonly may include L2). This is why the spinal level most often cited for the accessory obturator nerve is L3–L4. When present, it commonly supplies the pectineus muscle and can contribute to hip flexion or adduction, though its presence varies among individuals.