A preliminary exploration of blood vessels within the sciatic nerve of human cadavers.

Background:

Whereas the blood supply to the sciatic nerve in humans, the retention of embryonic ischemic arteries, and the occurrence of localised aneurysms have been well documented [1], investigations of the internal vasculature of human sciatic nerves are few.

Objective:

An exploratory study to ascertain the extent of, or any regional variation in vasculature to the sciatic nerve.

Specimens:

A convenience sample of five sciatic nerves from four cadavers. Caucasian males aged 70-89 years with no known or observable evidence of cardiovascular disorder, trauma or limb surgery were studied.

Methods:

The work was within the remit of the Human Tissue Act (2004) for anatomical examination, research and training. A dissection protocol was developed and piloted. Briefly; the superficial gluteal region was removed. The external blood vessels to the sciatic nerve were identified and followed to their entrance within the nerve sheath. The nerves were teased apart and observations made of their internal vascular network in the gluteal region to the nerve bifurcation. Comparisons were made within one cadaver and between the five cadavers.

Results:

Extensive internal vascularisation was observed in all five sciatic nerves. A particularly copious vascular network was observed proximally in the gluteal region.

Discussion:

These findings may be of clinical relevance to studies of sciatic nerve compression, trauma, neuropathy and regeneration. Further exploration is needed to determine if the extent of blood vessel networks within the sciatic nerve is consistent within a younger and larger sample; and whether quantifiable regional variations exist.