Anatomical Study of Width and Thickness of Sciatic Nerve in the Gluteal Region

Sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body originating from the sacral plexus and it supplies the lower limb through its branches. It leaves the pelvic cavity and enters the gluteal region usually through the greater sciatic foramen below the piriformis. It divides into its terminal branches at various levels which determine the length of sciatic nerve. The present study is undertaken to measure the width and thickness of sciatic nerve in the gluteal region as well as to measure the length of sciatic nerve till its terminal division. A detailed knowledge of anatomy of sciatic nerve and gluteal region whether normal or varied will not only help surgeon to be cautious, but plan accordingly during various surgical interventions in this region. Lower limb surgeries frequently involve sciatic nerve block. Therefore data obtained in the present study about the dimensions and course of SN in the gluteal region as well as the level of its division may serve as a guide for a successful surgery in this region.