Sacral fracture

Sacral Fracture

A sacral fracture is a break in the sacrum, a triangular bone at the base of the spine that forms the posterior section of the pelvis. These fractures can result from trauma, such as falls or motor vehicle accidents, or from pathological conditions like osteoporosis.

Diagram of the sacrum and coccyx

Anatomy of the Sacrum

The sacrum is a large, triangular bone located at the base of the spine, between the two hip bones. It consists of five fused vertebrae, labeled S1 to S5. The sacrum forms the back wall of the pelvic cavity and articulates with the ilium of the pelvis at the sacroiliac joint.

Causes of Sacral Fractures

Sacral fractures can occur due to:

• Trauma: High-energy impacts such as those from car accidents or falls from significant heights.
• Stress fractures: Repeated stress or overuse, often seen in athletes.
• Pathological fractures: Conditions like osteoporosis or cancer that weaken the bone structure.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a sacral fracture may include:

• Severe lower back pain
• Pain radiating to the buttocks or legs
• Numbness or tingling in the lower extremities
• Difficulty with bowel or bladder control

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a sacral fracture typically involves:

• Physical examination: Assessing pain, mobility, and neurological function.
• Imaging studies: X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to visualize the fracture and assess its severity.

Treatment

Treatment options depend on the severity and type of fracture:

• Conservative management: Rest, pain management, and physical therapy for stable fractures.
• Surgical intervention: Required for unstable fractures or those with neurological deficits. Procedures may include internal fixation or decompression.

Prognosis

The prognosis for sacral fractures varies. Stable fractures often heal well with conservative treatment, while unstable fractures may require surgical intervention and have a longer recovery period.

Illustration of the sacrum and coccyx

Complications

Potential complications of sacral fractures include:

• Chronic pain
• Neurological deficits
• Sacroiliac joint dysfunction

Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Using protective gear during high-risk activities
• Maintaining bone health through diet and exercise
• Managing underlying conditions like osteoporosis

Related Pages

• Pelvic fracture
• Spinal fracture
• Osteoporosis