Post-operative foot drop is commonly associated with injury to which nerve?

Post-operative foot drop is primarily associated with injury to the common peroneal nerve. This nerve wraps around the fibula, making it susceptible to compression or injury, especially in surgical settings where the position of the leg may be compromised. Damage to the common peroneal nerve disrupts the function of the muscles responsible for dorsiflexion of the foot, resulting in the inability to lift the front part of the foot, which is characterized as foot drop.

The deep peroneal nerve is responsible for innervating the extensor muscles but is less commonly involved in foot drop, especially in a post-operative context, as it is more protected than the common peroneal nerve. The tibial nerve innervates the plantar flexors and contributes to activities like standing on tiptoe, but would not directly cause foot drop. The sural nerve primarily provides sensory innervation to the lower leg and foot, and its injury typically does not result in motor deficits like foot drop. Thus, injury to the common peroneal nerve is the most relevant explanation for experiencing foot drop after surgery.