Minimally Invasive Image-Guided Transgluteal Approach for Resection of a Sciatic Nerve Tumor: A Technical Note

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Neurosurgery
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Traditional surgical approaches for sciatic notch lesions include the infragluteal and transgluteal methods.
• The infragluteal approach, while providing broad visualization, involves significant muscle dissection and higher morbidity.
• The transgluteal approach, typically used for posterior hip structures, offers less morbidity by preserving gluteal muscles.

Observation:

• Dynamic ultrasound imaging was employed for precise localization of sciatic notch tumors.
• A minimally invasive, tissue-sparing transgluteal technique was utilized for tumor resection.
• Three unique cases of sciatic notch tumors were successfully managed using this approach.

Findings:

• The transgluteal approach, enhanced by dynamic ultrasound, enables accurate tumor localization and resection.
• This technique preserves gluteal muscle integrity, contributing to reduced patient recovery time.
• The described method proved effective for managing diverse sciatic notch lesions.

Implications:

• Dynamic ultrasound-guided transgluteal surgery represents a less invasive alternative for sciatic notch tumor resection.
• This technique may lead to decreased postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster rehabilitation.
• Further adoption of this approach could enhance patient outcomes for sciatic notch pathologies.