An unusual case of trifurcation of the sciatic nerve

The sciatic nerve is the largest branch of the sacral plexus. It usually divides at the upper angle of the popliteal fossa. One of its common variations is high division into tibial and common peroneal nerves. Low divisions are rare. Trifurcation of the sciatic nerve is extremely rare. Here, one such unusual type of trifurcation of sciatic nerve has been reported. The sciatic nerve gave an abnormal trunk in addition to the tibial and common peroneal nerves. The abnormal trunk divided into lateral cutaneous nerve of the calf and the peroneal communicating nerve. Since the point of trifurcation was in the middle of the popliteal fossa, it is of clinical and surgical importance. Neuroanatomy; 2006; 5: 6–7.