Hiatus sacralis is a medical term that refers to a gap in the sacrum bone. The pronunciation of this term is [haɪˈeɪtəs sæˈkreɪlɪs]. Each syllable has a stress on either the first or the second syllable. The "hiatus" portion of the word comes from the Latin word "hiare," which means "to gape" or "to yawn." The "sacralis" portion of the word comes from "sacrum," which is the Latin word for the triangular bone at the base of the spine. This medical term is often used in the context of spinal surgery or anatomy studies.
Hiatus sacralis refers to a medical condition characterized by the abnormal presence of an opening or gap in the sacrum, which is the triangular bone situated at the base of the spine between the two hip bones. The sacrum is made up of several fused vertebrae and provides stability to the pelvis. In a normal sacrum, there is no gap or opening present.
This condition can occur as a congenital abnormality, meaning it is present from birth, or it may develop later in life due to trauma or other underlying medical conditions. The hiatus sacralis can vary in size and location, and its presence may cause certain complications.
Commonly, individuals with hiatus sacralis can experience symptoms such as lower back pain, sciatica (radiating pain or numbness down the leg), and weakness in the lower extremities. In severe cases, nerve compression can occur, leading to bladder or bowel dysfunction.
Diagnosis of hiatus sacralis is usually done through physical examination, medical history review, and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans. Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition and the symptoms experienced, ranging from conservative measures such as pain management and physical therapy to surgical intervention in more severe cases.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management for hiatus sacralis.
A gap at the lower end of the sacrum, exposing the spinal canal, due to failure of the laminae of the last sacral segment to coalesce.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "hiatus sacralis" is a combination of two terms: "hiatus" and "sacralis".
- "Hiatus" comes from the Latin word "hiātus", which means "opening" or "gap". It is derived from the verb "hiāre", meaning "to gape" or "to yawn". In English, "hiatus" refers to a break, interruption, or gap in something.
- "Sacralis" comes from the Latin word "sacrālis", which pertains to the sacrum. The sacrum is a large triangular bone located at the base of the spine, between the two hip bones. It is composed of multiple fused vertebrae.
Therefore, "hiatus sacralis" refers to a gap or opening in the sacrum, typically referring to an anatomical feature or abnormality.