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Superior gluteal nerve
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:watermark(/images/watermark_only_413.png,0,0,0):watermark(/images/logo_url_sm.png,-10,-10,0):format(jpeg)/images/anatomy_term/nervus-gluteus-superior/ZjJ4NX4lvG97CBQ6su2Cw_8UuiGiT6qk_Nervus_gluteus_superior_1.png "Superior gluteal nerve (Nervus gluteus superior); Image: Liene Znotina"){kind=logo}
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The superior gluteal nerve is a branch of the sacral plexus, arising from the anterior rami of L4, L5 and S1 spinal nerves. In its course, the superior gluteal nerve passes through the greater sciatic foramen alongside the superior gluteal vessels. It then passes superior to the piriformis muscle and runs between the gluteus medius and minimus muscles, dividing into superior and inferior branches.
The superior branch innervates the gluteus medius, while the inferior branch supplies both the gluteus medius and minimus muscles, as well as the tensor fasciae latae. The gluteus maximus is not supplied by the superior gluteal nerve, instead it is supplied by the inferior gluteal nerve
| Terminology |
English: Superior gluteal nerve Latin: Nervus gluteus superior |
| Definition | Motor branch of the sacral plexus |
| Roots | L4, L5, S1 |
| Supply | Gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, tensor fasciae latae |
Learn more about the branches of the sacral plexus with this study unit (and article):
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