Sonographic Imaging of the Sciatic Nerve Division in the Popliteal Fossa

Abstract

We could depict the sciatic nerve in all volunteers and its division in 53 of 74 (72%) volunteers. The position of nerve division showed large anatomic variation. A significant correlation between the width of the knee-joint line and the depth of the nerve division could be demonstrated. We conclude that handheld ultrasound is able to depict the sciatic nerves division. To block the nerve by one injection a more proximal access or visualization by mobile ultrasound is recommended. In addition the surrounding anatomic structures can be depicted as well.