[Anatomical comment: Hohmann retractor. A source of danger to the sciatic nerve.]

In referring to the article by Stühmer the authors describe the topographic relationship between the sciatic nerve and an inserted normal Hohmann retractor or a specially designed retractor by Stühmer. By simulating the surgical circumstances the following observations are made:In lateral position and with external rotation of the hip the sciatic nerve is found directly posterior to the major trochanter. When inserting the Hohmann retractor its point slips between the trochanter and the sciatic nerve. The nerve lies directly on the retractor or can be injured by inserting it. Contrary to this the Stühmer retractor avoids pressure on or skewing of the nerve.