Eur J Anat, 19 (4): 391-395 (2015)

Anomalous formation and branching pattern of the sciatic and pudendal nerves

Kanhaiya Jee, Anand K. Singh, Neeraj Kumar, Sukhendu Dutta

Mayo Institute of Medical Sciences, Gadia, Barabanki, India

ABSTRACT Multiple nerve variations were observed in the right gluteal region of a 62 year old female which includes origin, course and branching pattern of the sciatic and pudendal nerves. The sciatic nerve was formed by the L4, L5, S1 and S2 in the pelvis, whereas the pudendal nerve was contributed by the S3, S4 and S5. The pudendal was divided into medial and lateral divisions in the gluteal region. The lateral division had joined the sciatic nerve. High division of the pudendal nerve was observed and all its branches originated from the medial division of the pudendal nerve. The inferior rectal nerve passed through the sacrospinous ligament and formed a loop around the ischial spine. The dorsal nerve of the clitoris passed between the sacrospinous and sacrotuberous ligaments. Since iatrogenic injuries to these nerves may occur during surgery, a thorough knowledge of the variation anatomy of the sciatic and pudendal nerves can help to reduce post-operative complications. Moreover, variation anatomy knowledge might guide the radiologist, surgeons and other health professionals to diagnose and treat various neuralgia related to the perineum and gluteal region.

Keywords: Sciatic nerve, Pudendal Nerve, Inferior Rectal nerve, Nerve loop, Dorsal nerve of clitoris, Pudendal nerve proper, Sacrotuberous ligament, Sacrospinous ligament