The correct spelling of the term "foramen sacrale" is essential for medical professionals to communicate effectively. It refers to the passage in the sacrum through which nerves and blood vessels pass. The word is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription as /fɒˈreɪ.mən səˈkrɑː.li/. The "foramen" is pronounced with a short "o" sound and emphasis on the second syllable. The "sacrale" is pronounced with a long "a" sound, emphasis on the first syllable, and a silent "e" at the end. Correct spelling and pronunciation of medical terminology are crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
The term "foramen sacrale" refers to a specific anatomical structure located in the sacrum, which is the triangular bone situated at the base of the spine between the two hip bones. In Latin, "foramen" means "hole" or "opening," while "sacrale" relates to the sacrum bone.
Specifically, the foramen sacrale denotes the series of four openings present on each side of the sacrum. These openings are known as the posterior sacral foramina, located towards the back of the sacrum. There are typically four pairs (a total of eight) of these foramina, formed by the articulation of fused sacral vertebrae. The number and size may sometimes vary between individuals.
These foramina hold great significance as they provide passageways for the sacral nerves and blood vessels to travel from the spinal canal to various regions of the pelvic region and lower limbs. The sacral nerves play a crucial role in transmitting sensory and motor information, enabling proper innervation and functionality of the lower extremities, including muscles, skin, and organs in the pelvis and lower abdomen.
Understanding the anatomy and characteristics of the foramen sacrale is essential in various medical fields such as orthopedics, neurology, and radiology, as it aids in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the sacrum and related structures.
One of the foramina sacralia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word foramen sacrale is derived from Latin etymology. Foramen refers to an opening or hole, while sacrale pertains to the sacrum, which is the triangular bone at the base of the spine. So, foramen sacrale can be translated as the sacral opening or sacral foramen.