Femoral neuropathy associated with anticoagulant therapy.

The English literature concerning femoral neuropathy associated with anticoagulant therapy is reviewed. Anatomical dissections were carried out in order to determine how the neuropathy might be produced. It is postulated that hemorrhage occurs within the iliacus muscle and that a pressure neuropathy of the femoral nerve ensues. Conservative management is recommended. The condition is probably more prevalent than previously thought, as evidenced by the fact that two cases were diagnosed in as many years by one orthopedic surgeon in a 300-bed general hospital.