Surgical Management Of Piriformis Syndrome

Surgical Management Of Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis syndrome occurs when the sciatic nerve becomes compressed due to an enlarged or tight piriformis muscle. The piriformis is one of the external rotator muscles of the hip and lies in close proximity to the sciatic nerve. In some patients, unique anatomical variations or an overly developed piriformis muscle, particularly in its tendinous portion, can cause chronic compression of the sciatic nerve, leading to severe pain in the buttock, posterior hip region or even leg pain.

Treatment for piriformis syndrome includes conservative management with physical therapy and activity modification. A diagnostic and possibly therapeutic injection into the piriformis muscle may be performed to rule out other causes of sciatic nerve compression. If symptoms persist despite long-term conservative treatment, surgical decompression of the sciatic nerve can be performed by selectively releasing the piriformis tendon. This minimally invasive surgical procedure can provide significant pain relief and complete resolution of symptoms.