Identify and clean the gluteus medius and piriformis muscles and the sciatic nerve. (G 6.28C;N 482;Gl 34.35B)
- Locate the large sciatic nerve as it emerges immediately inferior to the piriformis muscle. Identify the inferior gluteal nerve and artery adjacent to the sciatic nerve at the inferior border of the piriformis. (G 6.31A;N 489;Gl 34.35B) You may remove the branches of the inferior gluteal vein.
- Use your fingers to separate the piriformis from the gluteus medius muscle.
Important Relationships
- The gluteus maximus muscle is positioned superficial to the gluteus medius muscle.
- The gluteus medius muscle is positioned superior to the piriformis muscle.
- The inferior gluteal artery and nerve pass directly inferior to the piriformis muscle.
- The sciatic nerve is positioned deep (anterior) to the gluteus maximus muscle (see cross section) and passes inferior to the piriformis muscle (see 3D dissection).
