[Delayed neuropathy of the sciatic nerve after total hip replacement with an acetabular reinforcement ring]

Lesions of the sciatic or femoral nerve after THR are typical complications. Delayed neuropathies of the sciatic or femoral nerve are rare conditions.

We report the case of a delayed neuropathy of the sciatic nerve after THR with reconstruction of the acetabulum with an acetabular reinforcement ring. After electrophysiologic evaluation we performed a revision of the sciatic nerve. Intraoperatively we found an impingement of the sciatic nerve between the dorsal aspect of the acetabular reinforcement ring and scar tissue. After revision of the nerve, resection of the scar tissue and interposition of a fat pad the patient was out of any complaints but reported some sensory deficits of the first toe.

Using acetabular reinforcement rings for reconstruction of acetabular defects care has to be taken of the correct position. In anatomically cramped positions a protruding of the dorsal edge of the ring may cause a lesion of the sciatic nerve.