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CT evaluation of the greater sciatic foramen in patients with sciatica
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|March 1, 1986
Summary
Pathologic changes in the greater sciatic foramen, primarily malignant neoplasms, cause sciatic and lower extremity symptoms. CT scanning is crucial for evaluating these symptoms, even when spinal causes are suspected.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Oncology
Background:
- Sciatic and lower extremity symptoms often stem from sacral plexus or sciatic nerve involvement.
- Pathologic changes in the greater sciatic foramen can cause these neurological deficits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the causes of sciatic symptoms originating from the greater sciatic foramen.
- To highlight the importance of CT scanning in diagnosing conditions affecting the greater sciatic foramen.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 25 consecutive patients over 4 years presenting with sciatic symptoms.
- Analysis of underlying pathologies within the greater sciatic foramen.
Main Results:
- Malignant neoplasms were the most common cause (18 patients), often alone or with infection (2 patients).
- Neurogenic tumors (3 patients) and infection alone (3 patients) were less frequent causes.
- CT scanning identified the pathologies in the greater sciatic foramen.
Conclusions:
- Pathologic conditions within the greater sciatic foramen, particularly malignant neoplasms, are significant causes of sciatic symptoms.
- Comprehensive evaluation of sciatic symptoms requires CT scanning of the greater sciatic foramen, irrespective of suspected spinal origin.