A patient sustained a posterior dislocation of the hip. Examination reveals the thigh is in flexion, adduction, and internal rotation. Which nerve is most commonly injured in this setting?

• A Femoral nerve
• B Obturator nerve
• C Superior gluteal nerve
• D Sciatic nerve ✓

Explanation

The sciatic nerve exits the pelvis through the greater sciatic foramen below the piriformis and runs posteriorly through the gluteal region just posterior to the hip joint. Posterior dislocation of the femoral head stretches or tears the sciatic nerve, causing foot drop (common peroneal component) and hamstring weakness (tibial component). The femoral nerve is more vulnerable in anterior hip dislocations.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.