Intraglúteal

Intraglúteal refers to something located within the gluteal muscles. The gluteal muscles are a group of three muscles that form the buttocks: the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus. These muscles are important for movement of the hip and thigh.

In a medical context, intraglúteal is most commonly used to describe the route of administration for intramuscular injections. An intraglúteal injection delivers medication directly into the substance of the gluteal muscles. This method is often chosen for medications that are irritating to other tissues, require slow absorption, or are given in larger volumes. The upper outer quadrant of the buttock is typically the preferred site for intraglúteal injections to avoid the sciatic nerve and major blood vessels.

The depth of the injection is crucial for effective and safe intraglúteal administration. The needle needs to penetrate the subcutaneous fat layer and reach the muscle tissue. Healthcare professionals are trained in proper technique and anatomical landmarks to ensure accurate placement. Complications, though rare, can include pain, bruising, infection, or nerve damage if the injection is not administered correctly.