How does the human pelvis work? Pelvic bones: structure and functions Anatomy of the pelvis

Nature has clearly thought out all the components of the human body. Each performs its own function. This also applies to the hip bones and pelvis as a whole.

The anatomy of the pelvis is very complex, part of the body here is the girdle lower limbs, fenced on both sides by hip joints. The pelvis performs many tasks in the body.

The peculiarities of its structure should be understood, especially since the anatomy of this area is very different in women and men.

Pelvic bones, anatomy

This section of the skeleton consists of two components - two nameless bones (pelvic) and the sacrum. They are connected by inactive joints, which are strengthened by ligaments.

There is an exit and an entrance, which is covered with muscles; this feature is most important for women, it significantly affects the course of labor. Nerves and blood vessels pass through many holes in the pelvic skeleton.

The anatomy of the pelvis is such that the innominate bones limit the pelvis from the sides and in front. At the back, the limiter is the coccyx, which is the end of the spine.

Nameless Bones

The structure of the innominate pelvic bones is unique, since they are represented by three more bones. Until the age of 16, these bones have joints, then they fuse in the area of ​​the acetabulum.

In this area there is a hip joint, it is strengthened by ligaments and muscles. The anatomy of the pelvis is represented by three components of the innominate bone: ilium, pubis, and ischium.

The ilium is presented in the form of a body located in the acetabulum; there is a wing. The inner surface is concave and contains intestinal loops. Below is an unnamed line that limits the entrance to the pelvis; as for women, it serves as a guide for doctors.

On the outer surface there are three lines that serve to attach the muscles of the buttocks. A ridge runs along the edge of the wing and ends with the posterior and anterior superior ilium. There is an inner and outer edge.

Important anatomical landmarks are the inferior, superior, posterior and anterior iliac bones.

The pubis also has a body in the acetabulum. There are two branches here, a joint is formed - the pubic symphysis. During childbirth, it diverges, increasing the pelvic cavity. The pubic symphysis is strengthened by ligaments, they are called the inferior and superior longitudinal.

The third bone is the ischium. Its body grows together in the acetabulum, and a process (tubercle) extends from it. A person leans on it when sitting.

Sacrum

The sacrum can be described as an extension of the spine. It looks like a spine, as if it were fused together. These five vertebrae have a smooth surface at the front called the pelvis.

On the surface there are holes and traces of fusion, through which nerves pass into the pelvic cavity. The anatomy of the pelvis is such that the posterior surface of the sacrum is uneven, with convexities. Ligaments and muscles are attached to the irregularities.

The sacrum is connected to the innominate bones by ligaments and joints. The tailbone ends the sacrum; it is a part of the spine, including 3-5 vertebrae, and has points for attachment of the pelvic muscles.

During childbirth, the bone is pushed back, opening the birth canal and allowing the baby to pass through without problems.

Differences between the female and male pelvis

Pelvic structure, anatomy internal organs women have striking differences and features.

By nature, the female pelvis is created for the reproduction of offspring; it is the main participant in childbirth. For a doctor, not only clinical but also x-ray anatomy plays an important role.

The female pelvis is lower and wider, the hip joints are at a wide distance.

In men, the shape of the sacrum is concave and narrow, lower section The spine and promontory protrude forward; in women it’s the other way around – the wide sacrum protrudes forward a little.

The pubic angle in men is sharp, in women this bone is straighter. The wings are deployed in the female pelvis, with the ischial tuberosities located at a distance.

In men, the gap between the anterior superior bones is 22-23 cm, in women it ranges from 23-27 cm.

The plane of exit and entrance from the small pelvis in women is larger, the opening looks like a transverse oval, in men it is longitudinal.

Ligaments and nerves

The anatomy of the human pelvis is structured in such a way that the four pelvic bones are fixed by well-developed ligaments.

They are connected by three joints: the pubic fusion, the sacroiliac and the sacrococcygeal. One pair is located on the pubic bones - from the bottom and from the top edge.

The third ligaments strengthen the joints of the ilium and sacrum.

Innervation. The nerves are divided here into autonomic (sympathetic and parasympathetic) and somatic.

Somatic system – sacral plexus associated with lumbar.

Sympathetic - sacral part of the border trunks, unpaired coccygeal ganglion.

Muscular system of the pelvis

The muscular system is represented by visceral and parietal muscles. In the large pelvis, the muscle consists in turn of three, they are in turn connected to each other. The anatomy of the pelvis represents the same parietal muscles in the form of the piriformis, obturator and coccygeus muscles.

Visceral muscles play a large role in the formation of the pelvic diaphragm. These include the paired muscles that lift anus, as well as gypsy sphincter ani extremus.

The iliococcygeus, pubococcygeus muscle, and powerful circular muscle of the rectum (distal part) are also located here.

Blood supply. Lymphatic system

Blood enters the pelvis from the hypogastric artery. The anatomy of the pelvic organs suggests their direct participation in this process.

The artery is divided into posterior and anterior, then into other branches.

The small pelvis is supplied by four arteries: the lateral sacral, obturator, inferior gluteal and superior gluteal.

The circuitous circulation involves the vessels of the retroperitoneal space, as well as the abdominal walls. The main veins of the roundabout venous circle pass between the small and large pelvis.

There are venous anastomoses here, which are located under the peritoneum of the pelvis, in the thickness of the rectum and next to its walls.

During blockade of large pelvic veins, the veins of the spine, anterior abdominal wall and lower back serve as indirect routes.

The main lymphatic collectors of the pelvis are the iliac lymphatic plexuses that divert lymph. Under the peritoneum at the level of the middle pelvis there are lymphatic vessels.

Excretory organs and reproductive system

The bladder is a muscular unpaired organ. Consists of a bottom and a neck, a body and an apex. One department smoothly transitions into another. The bottom has a fixed diaphragm. When the bladder is full, the shape becomes ovoid; when the bladder is empty, it becomes saucer-shaped.

The blood supply operates from the hypogastric artery. Then the venous outflow is directed to the cystic plexus. It is adjacent to the prostate gland and lateral surfaces.

Innervation is represented by autonomic and somatic fibers.

The rectum is located in the posterior part of the small pelvis. It is divided into three sections - lower, middle, upper. On the outside, the muscles are represented by powerful longitudinal fibers. Inside - circular. The innervation here is similar to the bladder.

Reproductive system

The anatomy of the pelvic organs necessarily includes the reproductive system. In both sexes, this system consists of the gonad, canal, Wolffian body, sinus of the genital and urogenital tubercles, Müllerian duct, ridges and folds.

The remaining rudiments are reflected on the external organs.

Male reproductive system:

  • testicle;
  • seminal gland;
  • lymphatic system;
  • appendage of three sections (body, tail, head);
  • spermatic cord;
  • seminal vesicles;
  • penis from three calvings (root, body, glans);
  • prostate;
  • urethra.

Female reproductive system:

  1. ovaries;
  2. vagina;
  3. the fallopian tubes– four sections (funnel, expanded part, isthmus, part piercing the wall);
  4. external genitalia (vulva, labia).

Crotch

The perineum is located from the top of the coccygeal bone to the pubic hill. Anatomy is divided into two parts: anterior (pudendal) and posterior (anal). The front is the genitourinary triangle, the back is the rectum.

The perineum is formed by a group of striated muscles that cover the pelvic outlet.

Pelvic floor muscles:

  • the basis of the pelvic diaphragm is the levator ani muscle;
  • ischiocavernosus muscle;
  • transverse deep muscle perineum;
  • transverse superficial perineal muscle;
  • constrictor muscle (urethra);
  • bulbospongiosus muscle.

Source: https://www.syl.ru/article/301750/anatomiya-taza-cheloveka

Human pelvic bones: anatomy, structure and functions

The pelvis is the part of the skeleton where the lower limbs and torso connect. The bones of the pelvis form the pelvic girdle.

There are two sections in it: the large (upper part) and the small pelvis (lower part).

The pelvic bone (os coxae) performs almost all the functions of the skeleton, and, above all, supporting, this is what explains its atypical structure. This is the largest bone in the human body.

The structure of the pelvis is different in men and women. It is related to childbirth

  • 1 Anatomy and structure
  • 2 Functions
    • 2.1 Support and movement
    • 2.2 Protection

Anatomy and structure

The structure of the pelvic girdle is determined by its important functions. The human pelvis consists of two nameless pelvic bones, the sacrum and the coccyx. With the help of joints, all these bones are connected into a ring that forms the pelvic cavity.

In the pelvic region there is a connection between the lower limbs and the body: the femur articulates with the acetabulum of the pelvic bone, forming the hip joint. The structure of this area has gender differences, this is associated with the reproductive function of women.

In women, the pelvis is lower and wider both in the transverse and longitudinal directions. The wings of the ilium and the ischial tuberosities in a woman are more turned to the sides. Many important and massive muscles of the body are attached to the pelvic bones.

The shape of the bones that make up the pelvis and their location can be seen in the photo below.

Functions

The function of the pelvic bones is supporting, which is why they must be as strong as possible, capable of withstanding high loads.

The human lower limb skeleton is divided into a belt, which consists of two pelvic bones, and a free part.

This division appeared in connection with the supporting function of this part of the skeleton as the main one, since these bones are massive, with strong joints.

The belt is represented by the pelvic bone, the free part consists of the following bones: femur, kneecap, lower leg and foot. The anatomy of the pelvic girdle suggests the following main functions of this part of the skeleton:

  1. Supports and movements: the entire weight of the upper half of the body falls on the pelvis.
  2. Protection: the pelvic bone protects the human internal organs located in the pelvic cavity.

Support and movement

Human anatomy provided for the creation of a high strength supporting element, this led to the fusion of the individual pelvic bones into a strong and massive bone.

In the center, on its outer surface, there is a depression - the acetabulum, necessary for articulation with the head of the femur (see photo).

This is the main point at which the pressure of the mass and movement of the upper part of the person is transmitted.

That is why its strength and area must be sufficient: it is wide in diameter, deep, with a steep edge. At this point, the three pelvic bones fuse together in adolescence - the ischium, ilium and pubis.

The pelvic bone in an adult consists of three fused bones - the ilium, ischium, pubis or pubis.

The pelvis is also directly involved in the movement of the body in space. It is its unique structure that determines a person’s upright posture; it holds the axis of balance and ensures the correct distribution of high loads.

No other animal has such a structure. The hip joint gives people the ability to walk; with its disorders and diseases, this function immediately suffers. This part of the skeleton also serves as a support for the spine.

Protection

The importance of the pelvic girdle from a protection point of view is difficult to overestimate.

Human anatomy is such that in the pelvic cavity there are a number of vital organs, reliably protected by strong bones: this bladder, almost all reproductive organs and a number of organs of the lower abdominal cavity related to digestive system body.

The protective function is of particular importance for women: the pelvic floor is involved in the process of bearing a fetus during pregnancy. The connection to the sacrum occurs through articular surfaces located on the iliac bones and on the sacrum itself.

And although this type of joint is classified as a joint, the movements in it are very limited, since these two bone structures are securely fastened together by a powerfully developed ligamentous apparatus. This structure helps women during pregnancy maintain the uterus in a certain position.

The pelvic area is an important part of the body, the health of which must be closely monitored and consult a doctor if you feel unwell or experience discomfort.

It is important to remember that timely detection of pathology in this area will protect a person from serious health problems, including complete immobilization.

Source: http://ProKoksartroz.ru/stati/tazovaja-kost

For any person, the structure of the pelvis is important. Anatomical features are necessary for correct diagnosis and examination. The pelvis serves many functions

All components of the human body are uniquely thought out by nature and clearly perform their functions, be it the structure of the femur or pelvis. This part of the body is a girdle of the lower limbs, which has hip joints on both sides.

This part of the skeleton is a kind of continuation of the spine and performs many tasks in humans. It is necessary to understand the structural features of the human pelvis, because, despite the similarities, its anatomy is different in women and men.

Building without details

There are two components in total - the sacrum and two nameless bones, which are also called the pelvic bones. They are connected by inactive joints, which are strengthened by ligaments.

There is an entrance and an exit, which is covered with muscles; these features are more important in women, since they influence the course of childbirth. There are many openings through which blood vessels and nerves pass.

With the help of the nameless pelvic bones, it is limited in front and on the sides. The rear limitation is the coccyx, which is a continuation of the spine.

Innominate bones of the pelvis

The structure of these pelvic bones is unique in its kind, since they are three more bones that have joints until the age of 16, and then fuse, which is confirmed by x-ray anatomy.

This joint fuses in the area of ​​the acetabulum, the name of which is translated from Latin as vinegar. In the area of ​​this formation is the hip joint, which in humans is strengthened by ligaments and muscles.

Components of the innominate bone:

  • ileal;
  • pubic;
  • sciatic

The ilium has a body located in the area of ​​the acetabulum, as well as a wing. It has a concavity along the inner surface; the shape is due to the fact that intestinal loops are located here.

Below there is an unnamed line, which limits the entrance to the pelvis and serves as a guideline for doctors, this applies to women. There are three lines along the outer surface - the place of attachment of the gluteal muscles.

A crest runs along the edge of the wing, which ends with the anterior and posterior, superior iliac bones; it has an outer and an inner edge.

There are superior and inferior, anterior and posterior iliac bones, which are important anatomical landmarks in humans.

The second bone that has a body in the acetabulum area is the pubis. It has two branches and forms another joint - the pubic symphysis.

This formation is called a semi-joint, since it has some signs of a joint, movements are absent or in the form of sliding, but it diverges during childbirth, increasing the pelvic cavity.

The upper branch runs horizontally, and the lower branch runs vertically. Connecting to the ischium, they limit the obturator foramen.

The pubic symphysis is strengthened by ligaments, which are called the superior and inferior longitudinal.

Sometimes during childbirth they rupture, as shown by x-ray anatomy in the image taken.

The superior branch is the limiter of entry into the pelvic cavity in humans. The lower one limits the exit plane.

The third bone is the ischium, its body, it grows together in the area of ​​the acetabulum of the hip joint. One process extends from the body, which has a tubercle; it is on it that a person leans while sitting.

The sacrum is a sacred bone

In ancient times, the sacrum was considered a sacred bone and therefore received its name in Latin - sacrum, which translates as sacred. This bone, without a doubt, can be called a continuation of the spine.

Outwardly, it resembles a spine, but one that has grown together. In humans, these are five vertebrae that have a smooth surface in front; in anatomy it is called the pelvic vertebrae.

Traces of fusion are visible on this surface, and there are also holes through which nerves enter the pelvic cavity of a person.

The posterior surface is uneven and has convexities characteristic of this part of the spine. These irregularities serve to attach muscles and ligaments.

The sacrum is connected to the innominate bones using joints reinforced by ligaments.

In front there is the most protruding part, which is the cape and serves as a guide for a person during an examination at an appointment with a gynecologist.

The sacrum ends with the coccyx, which is a part of the spine, and includes from 3 to 5 vertebrae. During childbirth, it is pushed back, allowing the baby to be born without problems. It also has attachment points for the pelvic floor muscles.

The difference between the pelvis

In a woman, the bone component and internal organs have some characteristics. The female pelvis performs important functions - it participates in childbirth. In this aspect, not only its clinical and x-ray anatomy, but also its shape is important for the doctor.

In women, the pelvis is wider and lower, the hip joints are located at a wider distance, and the bones do not differ in thickness. The shape of the sacrum in the male pelvis is narrower and concave, the promontory and lower spine protrude more forward.

In the female pelvis, the opposite is true: the sacrum is wide and does not protrude forward as much.

The shape of the pubic angle in men is sharp and ranges from 70 to 75 cm, in women it is more straight and ranges from 90 to 100 cm, the wings in the female pelvis are unfolded, and the ischial tuberosities are at a distance. In humans, the protrusions of the bone can serve as a guide. Thus, in women, the distance between the anterior superior bones ranges from 25 to 27 cm, while in men it averages 22-23 cm.

The plane of entry and exit from the pelvis in women is larger; the opening in women resembles a transverse oval at the top, while in men it is longitudinal.

And the volume is greater in the female pelvis, which is associated with childbirth. There are also features in the angle of inclination.

In the female pelvis it is 55-60 degrees, while in the male pelvis it is 50-55 degrees.

For the human pelvic bones, the size of the entrance and exit to the small pelvis matters. In gynecology, the entrance is considered to be the distance between the upper edge of the symphysis and the most protruding point of the promontory.

The exit is determined from the edge of the coccyx to the lower edge of the symphysis. The transverse dimensions are located at the top at the most distant points of the innominate line, the bottom ones are between the ischial tuberosities.

Based on the pelvic bones of a skeleton, one can easily determine the gender; this circumstance is used during excavations in archeology or during forensic medical examinations, when the task is to determine who it belonged to only from the skeleton.

The size of the pelvis is taken into account by obstetricians during childbirth and when planning it. If the dimensions are distorted or insufficient, then delivery is carried out surgically, through a caesarean section.

The dimensions of the pelvis are established and recorded in the pregnant woman’s chart when she first contacts the antenatal clinic. In men, the pelvis is not so important.

Perineal muscles

The exit from the small pelvis is called the perineum and is closed by muscles, which are important for a woman because they take part in the process of childbirth.

The male perineum, like the female one, is responsible for the act of defecation, urination and the function of the genital organs. The human perineum consists of the pelvic floor muscles, levator anus and external sphincter.

There are also several muscles that affect sexual function, promote erection, narrow the entrance to the vagina, for example, ischiocavernosus.

Organs that are in the pelvis

The structure of this part of the human body cannot be imagined without the pelvic organs.

In the pelvic cavity these are intestinal loops; during pregnancy, the uterus and the fetus in it are located here.

Also in the right iliac region on the right side of a person there is an appendix, although its location may vary.

Women and men have some features of the genital organs in the pelvic cavity.

Both sexes have a bladder and urethra, as do the rectum and part of the colon. Vessels, nerves, and some joint muscles pass near the spine.

Located near the pelvic spine nerve plexuses and lymph nodes.

In the small pelvis of a man there is a prostate that covers the urethra, it consists of muscles, next to it are the seminal vesicles, as well as the vas deferens.

Among the pelvic organs, a woman has ovaries, consisting of muscles, fallopian tubes, the uterus, its cervix and vagina.

Moreover, the cavity of the woman’s genital organs communicates with the abdominal cavity, which is fraught with the spread of infection. The space between the organs is occupied by fiber.

In some cases, this tissue near the rectum becomes inflamed, causing paraproctitis.

Blood supply and nerve plexuses

The pelvic organs have their own blood supply and innervation extending from the spine. Nerves are presented in the form of plexuses, as well as individual nerves.

The most important in practice are the sacral and coccygeal nodes.

Some nerves leave the spinal canal and penetrate the pelvic cavity as independent ones.

There are also arteries and veins near the spine. The largest are the common iliac arteries extending from the aorta.

From them, on each side, an external one branches off, it goes to the thigh, and an internal one, which supplies blood to the pelvic organs, the iliac arteries.

The outflow of blood is carried out through the veins of the same name into the superior vena cava.

The anatomy of the pelvis is very complex; in addition to the fact that it is a container for internal organs, it also bears the load while walking and distributes it.

Any curvature of the pelvic bones in women can affect the success of childbirth and the ability to bear a fetus.

In representatives of both sexes, curvature, for example, after an injury, can cause lameness, pain or disruption of the pelvic organs; in such cases, it is anatomy that helps to determine the cause.

Knowing every detail of the structure of the pelvis allows you to make a diagnosis and understand the cause of the development of a particular disease.

In some cases, structural features are used for examination to establish gender.

Information about the structure of the pelvis is also required during examination and reading of x-rays.

Source: http://drpozvonkov.ru/sustavy/anatomy/stroenie-taza.html

Pelvic bone anatomy and structure in men and women

The largest bone in the human skeleton is the pelvic bone.

It plays a great role in the activity of the musculoskeletal system, connecting the body with the lower limbs.

Its not easy anatomical structure due to its diverse functionality and enormous load, and it exerts pressure on both sides.

Anatomical features of the pelvic girdle

The hip region consists of a pair hip bones, which belong to the group of flat ones. They promote stability of the lower extremities, evenly distributing the load, which depends on body weight.

The male pelvic bones are united at the pubic symphysis, and together with the sacrum and coccyx form the pelvis. At human birth, both pelvic bones are presented as three separate parts, separated by cartilaginous formations.

Over time, they grow together to form one complete bone, and their articulation is called a deep hemispherical or acetabulum, which connects to the hip joint.

Due to the origin of the pelvic bone, it is usually considered to be a bone consisting of three parts.

Bones of the pelvis

The human pelvic bones are the most massive part of the musculoskeletal system, and the structure of the pelvic bone is determined by its supporting function. It consists of three different sections: the iliac, sciatic, and pubic.

The fusion of these areas begins during puberty. This happens precisely in those areas where the pressure on the pelvis is maximum. One of these areas is the acetabulum, in which the head of the femur is localized.

So after the articulation of these parts, the hip joint is formed.

The iliac part of the pelvis, consisting of the wing and body, is located above the acetabulum. One edge of the wing is presented in the form of a scallop, to which the abdominal muscles are attached. From the dorsal part of the iliac bone, its plane is united with the sacroiliac joint

The pubic bone is located under the acetabulum on the front side. It is presented in the form of two branches that connect at an angle. Between them there is a cartilaginous layer. All these elements form the pubic symphysis.

It plays a very important role during childbirth in women: when the fetus leaves the mother’s womb, the cartilage tissues are deformed, causing the pelvic bones to move apart. This contributes to the normal birth of a child.

This fact explains why the pelvic bone in men is much narrower than in women.

The ischium is located on the back of the pelvis, at the same level as the pubis, only on the opposite side.

The bone structure of this section has a tuberous surface, thanks to which a person can assume a sitting position. This area is covered with muscles and a layer of fat, which softens the situation.

In addition, the hip region consists of the coccyx and sacrum, creating a ring-shaped pelvic cavity.

Pelvic joint

The hip joint performs very important actions, thanks to which people are able to walk, run, jump or perform other manipulations associated with this department.

Its development begins during gestation, when the tiny organism is just forming.

After birth, the hip joint is presented as cartilage, which begins to gradually harden and then bulge out to form a stronger bone structure.

The head of the femur is covered with cartilaginous flesh, and the neck of the femur connects directly to the bone itself at the acetabulum.

On the outside, the plane of articulation is covered with durable fabric, and on the inside, it is reinforced with several ligaments that perform protective functions, helping to cushion the bones of the femoral joint during movement, and also protect against damage. blood vessels inside the joint.

The strongest ligaments human body considered iliofemoral, the diameter of which can be up to 10 mm.

They perform very significant actions: braking, during turning or extension movements.

The pubofemoral ligaments act similarly, but only in an extended position.

Main functions

The anatomy of the human pelvic bone is endowed with a complex structure and performs the following functions.

  1. Supporting – to support the spine.
  2. Protective - protects the internal organs of the hip girdle from external physical influences and damage: urea, intestines and reproductive organs. It is considered the most important function, as it protects the vital organs of the human body.
  3. The hip region serves as the center of gravity of the musculoskeletal system.
  4. Hematopoietic – promotes blood production, thanks to a large amount of red bone marrow.

Since the main function of the pelvis is protection, if it is damaged there is a risk of complications associated with damage to the internal organs of the pelvic girdle. Therefore, injuries to the hip region most often entail serious consequences.

How to maintain hip strength

The main method of preventing hip problems is body weight control. The larger it is, the greater the load on the pelvis. Experts calculated the load based on the person’s weight category.

For one extra kilogram, the load is 2 kg more than normal when walking, 5 kg when lifting, and when running or jumping - 10 kg. Thus, obesity contributes to rapid wear and tear of joints and the risk of osteoarthritis.

Therefore, playing sports prolongs the wear and tear of the joints of the pelvic area.

For pathological joint diseases or excess weight, doctors recommend doing simple exercises, walking or cycling more. Swimming is also good for your joints.

Moreover, during such sports there is no pressure on the pelvic joints. For fractures, after the bones have already healed, doctors advise gradually increasing the load.

This is done so that the joints become stronger and return to their previous levels.

In people of retirement age, bones no longer have such strength and are more likely to be injured. Therefore, to increase their strength, it is necessary to eat foods rich in calcium.

A large amount of this element is contained in dairy products, grains and legumes, walnuts, green vegetables, fish, fruits.

In addition, patients may be prescribed medications that contain sufficient amounts of calcium.

Based on the information described above, it can be noted that healthy image life, including proper nutrition, playing sports or light gymnastics, contribute to the long-term functioning of the joints of the pelvic girdle. In addition, a sufficient amount of calcium in the body, required to strengthen bone tissue, will reduce the risk of injury.

Pelvis, pelvis, - a part of the human skeleton located at the base of the spine, which provides attachment to the lower extremities to the body, and also serves as a support and bone container for a number of vital organs. Both pelvic bones, connecting to each other and to the sacrum, form the pelvis bone ring, pelvis, which serves to connect the torso with the free lower limbs. The bony ring of the pelvis is divided into two sections: the upper, wider one - the large pelvis, pelvis major, and the lower, narrower one - the small pelvis, pelvis minor.

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The large pelvis is limited only on the sides by more or less strongly deployed iliums. In front it has no bone walls, and in the back it is limited by the lumbar vertebrae. The upper border of the small pelvis, separating it from the large one, is the boundary line, linea terminalis, formed by the promontrorium, lineae arcuatae iliac bones, crests of the pubic bones and the upper edge of the pubic symphysis. The opening thus limited is called apertura pelvis superior. Down from the entrance lies the pelvic cavity, cavum pelvis. In front, the wall of the pelvic cavity, formed by the pubic bones and their connection to each other, is very short. The posterior wall, on the contrary, is long and consists of the sacrum and coccyx. On the sides, the walls of the small pelvis are formed by sections of the pelvic bones corresponding to the acetabulum, as well as the ischial bones along with the ligaments running to them from the sacrum. Below, the pelvic cavity ends with the lower aperture of the pelvis, apertura pelvis inferior, bounded by the branches of the pubic and ischial bones, the ischial tuberosities, with ligaments running from the sacrum to the ischial bones, and, finally, the coccyx. Obstetricians take measurements of the pelvis using a compass. When measuring a large pelvis, three transverse dimensions are determined:

  1. The distance between two spina iliaca anterior superior - distantia spinarum is 25-27 cm.
  2. The distance between two crista iliaca - distantia cristarum, equal to 28-29 cm. 3. The distance between two trochanter major - distantia trochanterica, equal to 30-32 cm. Then determine the outer direct size:
  3. The distance from the symphysis to the recess between the last lumbar and first sacral vertebrae is 20-21 cm. To determine the true direct size of the pelvis (conjugata vera), subtract 9.5-10 cm from the figure of the external direct size. Then you get conjugata vera s. gynecologica - size usually equal to 11 cm.
  4. The distance between the anterosuperior and posterosuperior iliac spines (lateral conjugate) is 14.5-15 cm.
  5. To determine the transverse size of the entrance to the small pelvis (13.5-15 cm), distantia cristarum (29 cm) is divided in half or 14-15 cm is subtracted from it.
  6. When measuring the transverse size of the pelvic outlet (11 cm), a compass is placed on the inner edges of the ischial tuberosities and 1-1.5 cm is added to the resulting figure of 9.5 cm for the thickness of the soft tissues.
  7. When measuring the direct size of the pelvic outlet (9-11 cm), a compass is placed on the apex of the coccyx and the lower edge of the symphysis, and from the resulting value of 12-12.5 cm, 1.5 cm is subtracted for the thickness of the sacrum and soft tissues. If you connect the midpoints of the direct dimensions of the pelvis, including the inlet and outlet, you get the so-called pelvic axis (axis pelvis) in the form of a curve, a concave anterior line passing through the middle of the pelvic cavity.

The pelvis in its natural position is strongly inclined anteriorly (inclinatio pelvis), so that the plane of the pelvic inlet, or conjugata anatomica, forms an angle with the horizontal plane, which is greater in women than in men. The tilt of the pelvis depends on the vertical position of the human body, which is also the cause of bending spinal column, with which the pelvis is in direct connection. The pelvic inclination angle varies between 75 and 55°. When sitting, the pelvis is almost horizontal, resulting in an angle of only 7°.

The shape and size of the pelvis reflect its function. In four-legged animals, in which the pelvis does not bear the weight of the entire overlying part of the body and does not support the internal organs, it is relatively small and has a narrow, elongated shape with a sharply predominant anteroposterior size of the small pelvis. In apes, in which the limbs were divided into arms and legs, the pelvis became much wider and shorter, but still the anteroposterior size prevails over the transverse one, as a result of which the shape of the entrance to the small pelvis resembles a card heart. Finally, in a person who has an upright posture, the pelvis has become shorter and wider, so that in men both sizes become almost the same, and in women, in whom it acquires a special function in connection with gestation and childbirth, the transverse size even predominates over the anterior one. rear

In Neanderthals, the pelvis has all human characteristics, which indicates an upright position of the body and bipedal walking, but it is still somewhat narrower than that of modern humans. Reflecting this process of evolution, in human ontogenesis, the pelvis first (in fetuses) has a narrow shape characteristic of quadrupeds, then, in a newborn, it is similar to the pelvis of anthropoids (monkey pelvis) and, finally, as the ability to walk upright is acquired, it gradually acquires a characteristic of humans form. During the onset of puberty, gender differences begin to appear especially sharply, which are expressed in the following.

Bones female pelvis generally thinner and smoother than men's. The wings of the ilium in women are more turned to the sides, as a result of which the distance between the spines and crests is greater than in men. The entrance to the female pelvis has a transverse oval shape, while the shape of the entrance to the male pelvis is rather longitudinal oval. The promontory of the male pelvis protrudes more forward than the promontory of the female pelvis. The male sacrum is relatively narrow and more strongly concave, while the female sacrum, on the contrary, is relatively wider and at the same time flatter. The pelvic opening in men is much narrower than in women; in the latter, the ischial tuberosities are further apart and the tailbone protrudes less forward. The convergence of the lower branches of the pubic bones on a well-developed female pelvis has the shape of an arc, arcus pubis, while on the male pelvis it forms an acute angle, angulus subpubicus. The pelvic cavity in men has a clearly defined funnel-shaped shape; in women, this funnel-like shape is less noticeable and their pelvic cavity in its outline approaches a cylinder.

Summarizing everything that has been said regarding gender differences in the pelvis, we can say that in general the male pelvis is higher and narrower, and the female pelvis is low, but wider and more capacious. On posterior radiographs of the pelvis, the pelvic bone is visible in all its major parts. The posterior part of the crista ilfaca and spina iliaca posterior superior are superimposed on the shadow of the sacrum. In the lower part of the wing of the ilium, clearings are often noticed, corresponding to vascular channels, which should not be mistaken for a site of bone destruction. Between the pubic bones there is an “X-ray gap” of the pubic symphysis, which looks like a narrow strip of clearing corresponding to the discus interpubicus. The contours of the crack are not quite even. The facies auriculares of the sacroiliac joint overlap each other, so the joint space on the posterior radiograph has a complex shape; it usually consists of two curved stripes of enlightenment, connecting at the top and bottom (a diamond shape is formed).

Pelvic girdle consists of two pelvic bones. It provides strong and stable support to the lower limbs, which bear the body's weight. The pelvic bones connect to each other in front at the pubic symphysis (a disc of fibrocartilage). With the sacrum and coccyx, the two pelvic bones form a “medicine tray”-like structure called the pelvis. After a person is born, each pelvic bone consists of three separate bones: the ilium, the ischium, and the pubis. These individual bones eventually join to form one pelvic bone, the area of ​​the joint being a deep hemispherical socket called the acetabulum (this socket connects to the head of the femur). Although the pelvic bone is a single bone, it is usually described as having three parts.

Ilium

Ilium is a large, flared bone that forms the largest and upper part of the pelvic bone. When a person places his hands on his hips, the iliac spines are felt. Each spine ends anteriorly as the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS); and posteriorly as the posterior iliac spine (PSIS) (this spine is difficult to palpate, but its position is indicated by a depression of skin in the sacral region, approximately at the level of the second sacral foramen).

Ischium

Ischium is the lower, posterior part of the pelvic bone, shaped like an arch. At the base of the ischium there are rough and thickened ischial tuberosities (sometimes called “sitting bones” because when a person sits, their entire weight rests on the ischial tuberosities).

pubic bone

pubic bone is the front and lower part of the pelvic bone.






The two pelvic bones, the sacrum, the coccyx and their joints form the pelvis (pelvis). Its upper section is expanded and is called the large pelvis (pelvis major), and the lower, smaller section is called the small pelvis (pelvis minor); they are separated from each other by a boundary line (linea terminalis). This line consists of the promontorium of the base of the sacrum, the linea arcuata of the ilium and the pecteri ossis pubis of the pubis.

The large pelvis is formed on the sides by the wings of the iliac bones, and on the back by the V lumbar vertebra and the iliopsoas ligament; anteriorly it is open, below it communicates with the small pelvis, at the top it continues into the abdominal cavity. The pelvic cavity serves as a container for the internal organs, and its bones serve as the attachment point for the abdominal and thigh muscles. The small pelvis represents a bone canal, its upper opening (apertura pelvis superior) is limited by the linea terminalis, the lower opening (apertura pelvis inferior) is smaller than the upper and is located between the apex of the coccyx, the branches of the ischium and pubic bones, lig. sacrotuberale, tuber ischii et lig. arcuatum pubis. The walls of the small pelvis are limited in front by the anterior part of the pubic bones and symphysis pubis, in the back by the concave surface of the sacrum and coccyx, and on the sides by the obturator membrane, ligg. sacrotuberale et sacrospinale, where there are also greater and lesser sciatic foramina.

In women, the small pelvis contains the rectum, bladder, uterus, ovaries, vagina; in men, the rectum, bladder, prostate gland, seminal vesicles and vas deferens, as well as blood and lymphatic vessels, nodes and nerves.

As a person acquired an upright position, the position of the pelvis also changed. In humans, the plane of the upper hole is directed upward and forward, forming an angle with the horizontal plane of 60°. In this regard, a compensatory bend was formed in lumbar region spine, which also influenced the shape of the sacrum.

In animals, the pelvic canal is in a horizontal position and the entrance to the pelvis is open forward.

The resistance of the pelvis to mechanical loads is exceptionally high: it can withstand a load of 1200 kg. Pressure and tensile forces are distributed from the spine in two directions: 1) through the base of the sacrum, the lower part of the ilium and the superior branch of the pubic bone; 2) through the sacrum, ischium and lower branch of the pubic bone. Both trajectories close at the acetabulum and continue to the femur. When graphically reconstructing the crossbars of the spongy substance of the pelvic and femoral bones, it is clear that they are mutually correlated and complement each other. This feature significantly improves the mechanical properties of the pelvis and hip joint.

The pelvis together with the hip joint represents a lever of the first kind (Fig. 138). The anterior lever arm starts from the acetabulum and ends on the spina iliaca anterior superior; the posterior shoulder is longer and, starting in the center of the acetabulum, goes back to the spina iliaca posterior superior. Depending on the position of the center of gravity of the body, the load will be distributed to the front or rear arm of the lever. The rear arm of the lever is longer than the front arm, so the torque of the force will be greater at the rear arm. The pelvis, balancing on the heads of the femurs, can roll back, which is prevented by well-developed ligaments and muscles located in front of the hip joint.

138. The pelvis as a lever of the first kind in a vertical position of the body (according to V.P. Vorobyov).

1 - short arm of the lever, which is acted upon by muscles and ligaments;
2 - transverse axis of the hip joint;
3 - the long arm of the lever, which is acted upon by the muscles and gravity of the body.

Age characteristics. The pelvis of a newborn is much less developed than the chest, abdomen and head. The promontory of the sacrum is absent and the shape of the pelvis resembles a funnel with an upper diameter of 2.7 cm. The sacrum is located 1 cm above the entrance to the pelvis. By 3 years of life, the border line (linea terminalis) is compared to the cape. The anteroposterior dimension is larger than the transverse one. Only by the end of the 2nd year does the transverse size become larger. Until puberty, the pelvis grows slowly. For example, the anteroposterior size of the gas in a newborn is 2.7 cm, after a year - 4.1 cm, at 7 years - 8.5 cm, at 12 years - 9.5 cm and by the age of 13 it reaches its size in an adult (11 cm ). Until the age of 8-9, the pelvis of boys and girls grows equally, and then in boys it grows more in height.

In older people, the number of bone plates in the spongy substance of the pelvic bones decreases and cavities appear. Bones become lighter and more fragile. The cartilage of the pubic fusion partially atrophies and loses elasticity.

Sexual characteristics. In no part of the human skeleton are sexual characteristics more pronounced than in the pelvis (Fig. 139). These features arise from those functional differences that, during the evolution of placental animals, developed and were genetically fixed. The birth of the fetus and, consequently, the development of the individual depend on the shape and size of the bone ring and the pelvic canal. If the pelvis is significantly deformed, childbirth is impossible.


139. Sexual characteristics of the pelvis.
A - female pelvis; B - male.

What characterizes the female and male pelvis? As already noted, after 10 years of age, the male pelvis grows mainly in height, i.e., its shape is closer to the pelvis of animals or our distant ancestors. The female pelvis becomes wider and shorter, the promontory of the sacrum protrudes slightly. With a narrow chest and a wide, large pelvis, women have a more clearly defined waist than men. In women, the ischial tuberosities and spines are further apart than in men, and this affects the size of the pubic angle, which ranges from 90 to 100°. Therefore, the upper opening of the entrance to the pelvis in women takes the shape of an ellipse with a large transverse diameter. The bones of the female pelvis are less massive, they have less pronounced bumps, protrusions and roughness, the size of which depends on the degree of muscle development.

Based on the obtained sizes of the large and small pelvis, it is possible to predict the course of labor and prevent its complications.

Dimensions of the large pelvis in women. 1. The distance between two spina iliaca anterior superior - distantia spinarum - 25 - 27 cm.

2. The distance between two crista iliaca - distantia cristarum is 28-29 cm.

3. The distance between the trochanter major of the femur - distantia intertrochanterica - 30-32 cm.

Pelvic dimensions in women. 1. Direct size, or true obstetric diagonal (conjugata vera), is measured from the inner surface of the symphysis to the promontory of the sacrum. It is impossible to directly determine this size on a living woman. Therefore, the direct size is obtained indirectly by measuring the distance of the outer surface of the pubic fusion to the depression between the last lumbar and first sacral vertebrae on the back, which is 20-21 cm. From these figures, the direct size of the small pelvis can be deduced. From 20-21 cm, subtract 9.5-10 cm for soft tissue, and get the true size: 11-11.5 cm.

2. To assess the size of the conjugata vera, the distance from the lower edge of the pubic fusion to the promontory of the sacrum is measured by inserting fingers into the vagina, corresponding to 12.5 cm. Then 1.5 cm is applied to the thickness of the pubic fusion and soft tissues.

Dimensions of the pelvic outlet in women. 1. The distance between the ischial tuberosities is 11 cm (Fig. 140).


140. Pelvic diameters and pelvic angle.

1 - conjugata anatomica (recta);
2 - conjugata 10.5 cm;
3 - conjugata diagonalis 12.5 cm;
4 - diameter recta of the pelvic cavity;
5 - pelvic axis;
6 - diameter recta of the pelvic outlet 9.5 cm in women.

2. The distance from the apex of the coccyx to the lower edge of the symphysis is 12-12.5 cm. To obtain the direct size of the pelvic outlet, it is necessary to subtract 2.5-3 cm. If the apex of the coccyx is moved back, this distance may increase, which is what happens in period of fetal passage.

All sizes of the male pelvis are 1.5-2 cm smaller than the female pelvis. There are cases when men have female uniform pelvis, and in women - male.

The shape and size of the pelvis are affected by many factors: lameness, bone disease, rickets, etc., so individual differences in the pelvis are extremely large. Particularly significant deformation of the pelvis is observed with rickets, when, due to a violation of mineral metabolism in the body, the bones contain few minerals and become soft. The soft bones change under the weight of the body so that the base of the sacrum moves forward, and its apex, held by powerful sacrotuberous and sacrospinous ligaments, remains in place. In this case, the sacrum is bent in the middle more than is the case in healthy children. As a result, the base of the sacrum moves forward and the direct size of the entrance to the pelvis decreases. When the sacrum moves forward, the posterior parts of the iliac bones come together. As a result of these displacements, the transverse diameter increases and the direct diameter of the entrance to the pelvis decreases.

The largest bone in the human skeleton is the pelvic bone. It plays a great role in the activity of the musculoskeletal system, connecting the body with the lower limbs. Its complex anatomical structure is due to its diverse functionality and enormous load, and it exerts pressure on both sides.

Anatomical features of the pelvic girdle

The hip region consists of a pair of hip bones, which belong to the group of flat bones. They promote stability of the lower extremities, evenly distributing the load, which depends on body weight. The male pelvic bones are united at the pubic symphysis, and together with the sacrum and coccyx form the pelvis. At human birth, both pelvic bones are presented as three separate parts, separated by cartilaginous formations. Over time, they grow together to form one complete bone, and their articulation is called a deep hemispherical or acetabulum, which connects to the hip joint. Due to the origin of the pelvic bone, it is usually considered to be a bone consisting of three parts.

Bones of the pelvis

The human pelvic bones are the most massive part of the musculoskeletal system, and the structure of the pelvic bone is determined by its supporting function. It consists of three different sections: the iliac, sciatic, and pubic. The fusion of these areas begins during puberty. This happens precisely in those areas where the pressure on the pelvis is maximum. One of these areas is the acetabulum, in which the head of the femur is localized. So after the articulation of these parts, the hip joint is formed.

The iliac part of the pelvis, consisting of the wing and body, is located above the acetabulum. One edge of the wing is presented in the form of a scallop, to which the abdominal muscles are attached. From the dorsal part of the iliac bone, its plane is united with the sacroiliac joint

The pubic bone is located under the acetabulum on the front side. It is presented in the form of two branches that connect at an angle. Between them there is a cartilaginous layer. All these elements form the pubic symphysis. It plays a very important role during childbirth in women: when the fetus leaves the mother’s womb, the cartilage tissues are deformed, causing the pelvic bones to move apart. This contributes to the normal birth of a child. This fact explains why the pelvic bone in men is much narrower than in women.

The ischium is located on the back of the pelvis, at the same level as the pubis, only on the opposite side. The bone structure of this section has a tuberous surface, thanks to which a person can assume a sitting position. This area is covered with muscles and a layer of fat, which softens the situation. In addition, the hip region consists of the coccyx and sacrum, creating a ring-shaped pelvic cavity.

Pelvic joint

The hip joint performs very important actions, thanks to which people are able to walk, run, jump or perform other manipulations associated with this department. Its development begins during gestation, when the tiny organism is just forming. After birth, the hip joint is presented as cartilage, which begins to gradually harden and then bulge out to form a stronger bone structure. This process continues until the adult human body is fully formed. After which bone growth stops, but other processes - changes in shape, location and structure - still continue.

The head of the femur is covered with cartilaginous flesh, and the neck of the femur connects directly to the bone itself at the acetabulum. On the outside, the plane of articulation is covered with durable tissue, and on the inside it is reinforced by several ligaments that perform protective functions, helping to cushion the bones of the femoral joint during movement, and also protect the blood vessels inside the joint from damage.

The strongest ligaments in the human body are considered to be the iliofemoral ligaments, the diameter of which can be up to 10 mm. They perform very significant actions: braking, during turning or extension movements. The pubofemoral ligaments act similarly, but only in an extended position.

Main functions

The anatomy of the human pelvic bone is endowed with a complex structure and performs the following functions.

  1. Supporting – to support the spine.
  2. Protective - protects the internal organs of the hip girdle from external physical influences and damage: urea, intestines and reproductive organs. It is considered the most important function, as it protects the vital organs of the human body.
  3. The hip region serves as the center of gravity of the musculoskeletal system.
  4. Hematopoietic – promotes blood production, thanks to a large amount of red bone marrow.

Since the main function of the pelvis is protection, if it is damaged there is a risk of complications associated with damage to the internal organs of the pelvic girdle. Therefore, injuries to the hip region most often entail serious consequences.

How to maintain hip strength

The main method of preventing hip problems is body weight control. The larger it is, the greater the load on the pelvis. Experts calculated the load based on the person’s weight category. For one extra kilogram, the load is 2 kg more than normal when walking, 5 kg when lifting, and when running or jumping - 10 kg. Thus, obesity contributes to rapid wear and tear of joints and the risk of osteoarthritis. Therefore, playing sports prolongs the wear and tear of the joints of the pelvic area.

For pathological joint diseases or excess weight, doctors recommend doing simple exercises, walking or cycling more. Swimming is also good for your joints. Moreover, during such sports there is no pressure on the pelvic joints. For fractures, after the bones have already healed, doctors advise gradually increasing the load. This is done so that the joints become stronger and return to their previous levels.

In people of retirement age, bones no longer have such strength and are more likely to be injured. Therefore, to increase their strength, it is necessary to eat foods rich in calcium. A large amount of this element is contained in dairy products, grains and legumes, walnuts, green vegetables, fish, and fruits. In addition, patients may be prescribed medications that contain sufficient amounts of calcium.

Based on the information described above, it can be noted that a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, sports or light exercise, contributes to the long-term functioning of the joints of the pelvic girdle. In addition, a sufficient amount of calcium in the body, required to strengthen bone tissue, will reduce the risk of injury.