Unusual Nervous Contribution to the Formation of the Inferior Gluteal Nerve: Clinical and Surgical Outcomes

Abstract

Knowledge of anatomical variations within the gluteal region is important to accurately diagnose and avoid potential iatrogenic nerve injuries. An unusual nerve course within the gluteal region was identified. The posterior femoral cutaneous nerve (PFCN) and S3 nerve root contributed to the formation of the inferior gluteal nerve (IGN), which then continued its path to innervate the gluteus maximus muscle (GMax). Based on these findings, the IGN received fibers from spinal levels L5, S1, S2 and S3. This variation has clinical and surgical implications. Peripheral nerve anomalies are important for physicians and should be taken into consideration for some radiological diagnoses and surgical procedures such as total hip arthroplasty which is the most common surgical procedure in which the IGN can be injured.