Morphology of the superior gluteal nerve: A study in adult human cadavers

The superior gluteal nerve (SGN) arises from the sacral plexus and enters the gluteal region above the piriformis where it divides into superior and an inferior branches. Former ends in the gluteus medius and occasionally gluteus minimus whereas latter supplies gluteus medius and minimus and ends in tensor fascia latae. Variations, relations, branching pattern and length of the SGN were reported in earlier studies. The present study was conducted to establish preliminary data on the length and branching pattern of the SGN and its relations with the neighbouring bony landmarks. Twenty two lower extremities were examined in 22 male and 13 female formalin fixed cadavers. Tip of the greater trochanter was determined as the point of reference. Statistical analysis was done using student's T test. Present study will help orthopedicians performing total hip replacement through lateral and transgluteal approaches.