Pelves

Pelves

The pelvis is a complex bony structure located at the lower part of the trunk, serving as a vital connection point between the axial skeleton and the lower limbs. It consists of several bones, including the sacrum, coccyx, and a pair of hip bones (each comprising the ilium, ischium, and pubis). The pelvis plays a crucial role in supporting the weight of the upper body when sitting and standing, and it houses and protects various organs within the abdominal and pelvic cavities, such as the bladder, reproductive organs, and the lower part of the intestines.

Structure

The pelvis is divided into two distinct regions: the pelvic girdle and the pelvic cavity. The pelvic girdle consists of the sacrum and the two hip bones, which are connected at the front by the pubic symphysis, a cartilaginous joint. The pelvic cavity is a body cavity that is bounded by the bones of the pelvis and contains parts of the digestive system, urinary system, and reproductive system.

Bones of the Pelvis

• Sacrum: A large, triangular bone at the base of the spine, formed by the fusion of five vertebrae.
• Coccyx: Also known as the tailbone, it is located at the very bottom of the sacrum.
• Hip Bones: Each hip bone is formed by the fusion of three bones - the ilium, ischium, and pubis.

Function

The primary functions of the pelvis include:

• Supporting the weight of the upper body when sitting and standing.
• Providing attachment points for and bearing the weight of the lower limbs.
• Protecting pelvic and lower abdominal organs from mechanical injuries.
• Serving as a passageway for childbirth in females.

Clinical Significance

The shape and size of the pelvis vary significantly between sexes, with the female pelvis being wider and shallower than the male pelvis, which is taller and narrower. This difference facilitates childbirth in females. Conditions affecting the pelvis can include pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), pelvic fractures, and osteoarthritis of the hip. Diagnostic methods such as X-rays and MRI scans are commonly used to assess and diagnose pelvic conditions.

See Also

• Human skeleton
• Orthopedics
• Gynecology