A patient with a posterior hip dislocation presents with loss of hip extension, external rotation, and abduction power, along with foot drop. The sciatic nerve is injured. Which division of the sciatic nerve is characteristically injured FIRST in posterior hip dislocation and fractures of the acetabulum?

• A Tibial division
• B Both divisions equally
• C Common peroneal (fibular) division ✓
• D Superior gluteal nerve, not the sciatic nerve

Explanation

In posterior hip dislocation, the common peroneal (common fibular) division of the sciatic nerve is more vulnerable because it lies more lateral and is tethered by the neck of the fibula distally — this makes it less mobile. Foot drop (weak dorsiflexion and eversion) and loss of sensation over the dorsum of the foot are typical. The tibial division is more medial and better protected by surrounding tissue. This selective peroneal vulnerability is a classic NEET PG anatomy point.

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

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.