Origin, course and distribution of the superior gluteal nerve

Ten pelvic halves of six Japanese male cadavers were dissected in order to obtain precise anatomical knowledge of the course and distribution of the superior gluteal nerve. The more anterior parts of the glutei medius and minimus, innervated by branches of the superior gluteal nerve, were revealed to originate more cranially, and the tensor fasciae latae was innervated by the cranialmost element of the nerve. Based on these findings, it might be proposed that the course and distribution of the superior gluteal nerve are directly influenced by the anterior rotation of the gluteus medius.