Title: An unusual cause of sciatica. A case report. Author: Servant CT. Journal: Spine (Phila Pa 1976); 1998 Oct 01; 23(19):2134-6. PubMed ID: 9794060. Abstract: STUDY DESIGN: This case report illustrates the need to be aware of extraspinal causes of sciatica. A patient with a strangulated sciatic hernia showed the clinical features of sciatic leg pain, intestinal obstruction, and a left gluteal abscess. OBJECTIVE: To highlight the need to examine the course of the sciatic nerve for local pathology when the cause of sciatica is not obvious. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Sciatic herniae are rare. The coexistence of sciatica and a gluteal abscess, caused by a strangulated sciatic hernia, does not appear to have been reported previously. METHODS: A 66-year-old woman with preexisting low back pain and left leg pain was admitted to the hospital with intestinal obstruction and a left gluteal mass. Results of needle aspiration suggested the diagnosis, which was confirmed by laparotomy. The sciatic hernia was repaired via a transabdominal approach. RESULTS: The symptoms of sciatic nerve compression and intestinal obstruction resolved fully after surgery. CONCLUSION: The possibility of local pathology causing sciatic nerve compression should be considered when a patient reports sciatic leg pain, particularly if the presentation is atypical. Intestinal obstruction or the presence of a gluteal mass should suggest the possibility of a sciatic hernia.[Abstract] [Full Text] [Related] [New Search]
