Identify the gluteus medius and piriformis muscles and the sciatic nerve. (G 6.28C;N 482;Gl 34.35B)
- Reflect the gluteus maximus muscle laterally and Identify the sciatic nerve and the piriformis muscle.
- Identify the gluteus medius muscle positioned superior to the piriformis muscle.
- Identify the stumps (cut during reflection of the gluteus maximus muscle) of the inferior gluteal nerve and artery adjacent to the sciatic nerve at the inferior border of the piriformis muscle. (G 6.31A;N 489;Gl 34.35B)
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).
