Sacrum

Os sacrum

The sacrum forms the posterior wall of the pelvis. The sacral promontory projects anteriorly at the lumbosacral junction. Four pairs of sacral foramina transmit sacral nerves. The sacral canal is the inferior continuation of the vertebral canal.

Type Bone
Body System Skeletal
Body Region Pelvis
Latin Name Os sacrum
FMA ID 16202

Function

A large triangular bone formed by the fusion of five sacral vertebrae. Transmits the weight of the upper body to the pelvis and lower limbs through the sacroiliac joints. Protects the pelvic organs posteriorly.

Clinical Significance

Sacral fractures occur in high-energy trauma and insufficiency fractures in osteoporosis. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is a common cause of low back pain. The sacral hiatus is used for caudal epidural anesthesia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Sacrum?
The sacrum forms the posterior wall of the pelvis. The sacral promontory projects anteriorly at the lumbosacral junction. Four pairs of sacral foramina transmit sacral nerves. The sacral canal is the inferior continuation of the vertebral canal.
What is the function of the Sacrum?
A large triangular bone formed by the fusion of five sacral vertebrae. Transmits the weight of the upper body to the pelvis and lower limbs through the sacroiliac joints. Protects the pelvic organs posteriorly.
What body system is the Sacrum part of?
The Sacrum is part of the Skeletal.
What conditions affect the Sacrum?
Sacral fractures occur in high-energy trauma and insufficiency fractures in osteoporosis. Sacroiliac joint dysfunction is a common cause of low back pain. The sacral hiatus is used for caudal epidural anesthesia.
Where is the Sacrum located?
The Sacrum is located in the Pelvis region of the body.

Related Structures

articular surface articular system joint system articulation joint Atlas (C1) Atlas attachment site axial skeleton plus cranial skeleton skeleton axiale Axis (C2) Axis bone collagen fibril

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