How to avoid injuries of the superior gluteal nerve

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Injuries to the superior gluteal nerve are a common complication in hip replacement surgery. They can be avoided with a good anatomical knowledge of the course of the superior gluteal nerve. METHODS: We dissected 29 half pelvises of adult cadavers. The distance and the angle from the entry points of branches of the superior gluteal nerve into the deep surface of the gluteus medium and minimus muscles to the midpoint of the superior border of the greater trochanter were measured. RESULTS: The dissections revealed that the nerve divided into 2 branches (86.20%) or 3 branches (13.8%). The more caudal branch was responsible for innervation of the tensor fascia latae. CONCLUSIONS: A 2-3-cm safe area above the greater trochanter is appropriate to prevent nerve damage.