Lesser sciatic notch

The lesser sciatic notch of the human hip bone, shown in red.

The Lesser Sciatic Notch is a notable anatomical feature of the human skeleton. It is a small, curved depression located on the posterior side of the Ischium, one of the three bones that make up the hip bone.

Anatomy

The lesser sciatic notch is situated inferior to the Ischial spine and superior to the Ischial tuberosity. It is smaller and less pronounced than the Greater sciatic notch, which is located superior to the ischial spine. The lesser sciatic notch is converted into a foramen (opening) by the sacrospinous ligament and the sacrotuberous ligament, which cross the notch.

Function

The lesser sciatic notch allows passage for several important structures in the human body. These include the tendon of the Obturator internus muscle, the nerve to the obturator internus, and the Internal pudendal vessels.

Clinical Significance

The size and shape of the lesser sciatic notch can vary among individuals. In some cases, a narrow or irregularly shaped notch can lead to compression of the structures that pass through it, potentially causing pain or other symptoms. This condition is known as Pudendal nerve entrapment.

See Also

• Greater sciatic notch
• Ischium
• Hip bone
• Pudendal nerve entrapment