Sciatic Nerve Injection Palsy in Children, Electrophysiologic Pattern and Outcome: A Case Series Study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Neurology
• Nerve Injury
• Musculoskeletal Disorders

Background:

• Sciatic nerve injury is a common mononeuropathy in children, often resulting from compression, trauma, or surgical stretching.
• Gluteal injections, while an uncommon cause in developed nations, can lead to sciatic nerve injury, particularly due to poor injection techniques or frequent administration.
• The peroneal division of the sciatic nerve is more susceptible to injury due to its anatomical characteristics.

Observation:

• This study investigated seven children under six years old presenting with abnormal gait and foot pain after gluteal injections.
• The cases were identified at a pediatric electrodiagnostic center over a two-year period (2012-2013).
• Five children sustained peroneal component injuries, and two experienced tibial component injuries.

Findings:

• Electrophysiological studies are crucial for diagnosing sciatic nerve injury.
• The recovery rate for sciatic nerve injuries, especially those resulting from injections, is generally poor.
• Among the five children followed for one year, only one demonstrated significant recovery.

Implications:

• The findings underscore the potential iatrogenic risk of sciatic nerve injury from gluteal injections in pediatric patients.
• Emphasizes the need for meticulous injection techniques and careful consideration of alternative administration sites in children to prevent nerve damage.
• Highlights the long-term consequences and limited recovery potential, necessitating early diagnosis and management strategies.