Ultrasonographic and magnetic resonance images of a gluteus maximus tear

• Published in: Journal of yeungnam medical science Vol. 38; no. 2; pp. 157 - 159
• Main Authors: Kim, Jong Bum, Lee, Wonho, Chang, Min Cheol
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Korea (South) Yeungnam University College of Medicine 01.04.2021; 영남대학교 의과대학
• Subjects: Case Report; magnetic resonance imaging; pain; skeletal muscle; sprains and strains; ultrasonography; 의학일반; Pain; Magnetic resonance imaging; Skeletal muscle; Sprains and strains; Ultrasonography
• ISSN: 2384-0293; 2384-0293; 2799-8010
• DOI: 10.12701/yujm.2020.00500

The diagnosis of a gluteal muscle tear or strain is based on clinical findings. However, for an accurate diagnosis, imaging examinations are also needed. Herein, we describe the case of a patient with a gluteus maximus muscle tear confirmed by ultrasonography (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A 58-year-old woman complained of dull pain in the left lateral gluteal region that she had been experiencing for 8 days. In the axial US image, retraction of the left gluteus maximus muscle was noted around its insertion site in the iliotibial band. On an MRI, a partial tear in the left gluteus maximus was observed at its insertion site in the left iliotibial band. In addition, fluid infiltration due to edema and hemorrhage was observed. A partial left gluteal muscle tear was diagnosed. The patient was treated with physical therapy at the involved region and oral analgesics. She reported relief from the pain after 1 month of treatment. Based on this experience, we recommend US or MRI for accurate diagnosis of muscle tear or strain.