Sulcus Nervi Dorsalis Penis/Clitoridis: Clinical and Forensic Aspects

Overview

Sulcus nervi dorsalis penis/clitoridis is a groove on inferior ramus of pubis and ventral surface of the body of pubis, where dorsal nerve of penis in male and dorsal nerve and artery of clitoris in female run. Close relation of the dorsal nerve of penis/clitoris and pubis, represented by the course of sulcus nervi dorsalis penis/clitoridis has a major impact in surgical disciplines. Exact preparation of the dorsal nerve of penis is crucial in correct performance of conversion of genitalia in patients with transsexualism, in reconstruction of posterior urethra, in hypospadia, during performance of penile blockade during circumcision and in revascularization surgery of erectile dysfunction. The role of sulcus nervi dorsalis penis in the Alcock’s syndrome is discussed. Similarly, it is advisable to take care of the dorsal nerve of clitoris inside sulcus nervi dorsalis clitoridis during reduction clitoridoplasty in patients with adrenogenital syndrome and during the insertion of transobturator vaginal tape. Injury of dorsal nerve of penis/clitoridis leads to hypestesia or anestesia of glans penis/clitoridis. The injury of dorsal artery of clitoris leads to hematoma. It is possible to use sulcus nervi dorsalis penis/clitoridis in sexing of isolated pubis from antropological or forensic purposes. Lateral border of sulcus nervi dorsalis penis/clitoridis corresponds to vertical ridge and lateral border of sulcus nervi dorsalis clitoridis to ventral arc – two parameters, which are part of the Phenice’s method for sexing of isolated pubis. 

Key words:
dorsal nerve of penis, dorsal nerve of clitoris; pubis, ventral arc, vertical ridge, sex determination, Alcock’s syndrome.