Superior Gluteal Artery, Lateral View

Description

Arising from the internal iliac artery within the pelvis, the superior gluteal artery courses posteriorly and laterally to exit the greater sciatic foramen superior to the piriformis muscle, then divides between gluteus medius and gluteus minimus. From this lateral perspective, the vessel’s relationship to the iliac bone and acetabular region is clear, with the artery lying deep to gluteus maximus and running superior to the sciatic nerve, which typically emerges inferior to piriformis. Portions of the lumbar spine and lower ribs frame the posterior pelvis, and accompanying superior gluteal veins track alongside the arterial trunk in the gluteal region. A key landmark. This course matters in both operative and traumatic settings. Superior gluteal artery injury is a recognized source of deep buttock hematoma and hemorrhage after pelvic fractures or posterior hip dislocation, and iatrogenic damage can occur during posterior approaches to the hip or during intramuscular injection placed too medially or inferiorly. The illustration’s emphasis on the artery emerging above piriformis helps reinforce the classic compartmental relationships of the greater sciatic foramen, which also explain patterns of pain and weakness when adjacent structures are compressed. Use this artwork in gross anatomy teaching on the pelvis and gluteal region, in orthopedic or trauma references describing pelvic ring injuries, and in procedural education addressing safe gluteal injection zones and posterior hip surgical corridors. It also supports radiology correlation when teaching pelvic CT angiography targets for suspected superior gluteal bleeding. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.