The term "cristae sacrales laterales" refers to the lateral sacral crest, a bony ridge on the side of the sacrum. The spelling of this term can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. "Cristae" is pronounced /ˈkrɪsteɪ/ with a hard "c" sound, while "sacrales" is pronounced /ˈsækrəleɪz/ with a soft "c" sound. "Laterales" is pronounced /lætəˈreɪliːz/ with a stress on the second syllable. Together, the term is pronounced /ˈkrɪsteɪ sækrəliz lætəˈreɪliːz/.
Cristae sacrales laterales, sometimes referred to as "sacral lateral crests," is a term used in anatomy to describe a specific anatomical feature found in the sacrum, which is a triangular bone at the base of the spine. The sacrum consists of five fused vertebrae and is located between the lumbar vertebrae and the coccyx.
The term "cristae" refers to ridges or crests, while "sacrales" pertains to the sacrum bone. "Laterales" specifies that these crests are located on the lateral or side aspect of the sacrum.
Cristae sacrales laterales are prominent bony ridges that run obliquely on both sides of the sacrum, extending from the sacral promontory (a prominent landmark at the sacrum's anterior aspect) to the lateral parts of the sacral wings. These crests contribute to the overall structural stability and strength of the sacrum.
The presence and size of cristae sacrales laterales can vary among individuals, and they may be more pronounced in males due to differences in pelvic anatomy. The crests serve as attachment points for various ligaments, muscles, and fascia, including those involved in pelvic floor support and posture.
Understanding the anatomy and features of the sacrum, such as cristae sacrales laterales, is crucial in clinical settings, especially in applications ranging from surgical procedures to orthopedic assessments.
The rough irregular longitudinal projections on the posterior surface of the sacrum external to the sacral foramina, one on either side of the bone, corresponding to the lateral processes of the vertebrae.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.