The pelvic inlet is the opening at the top of the pelvis. It is spelled /ˈpɛlvɪk ˈɪnlɛt/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable, "pelv," is pronounced with a short "e" sound as in "pet." The second syllable, "ic," is pronounced with a long "e" sound as in "week." The third syllable, "in," has a short "i" sound as in "pin," and the final syllable, "let," is pronounced with a short "e" sound, as in "bet." Remembering the correct spelling of the pelvic inlet is important for medical professionals and students studying anatomy.
The pelvic inlet, also known as the pelvic brim or mid-pelvic plane, refers to a crucial anatomical structure located at the upper part of the pelvis. It is the uppermost opening of the pelvis, bordered by the pelvic bones and soft tissues. The pelvic inlet serves as a gateway between the abdominal and pelvic cavities and plays a vital role in several physiological processes, such as childbirth and the passage of urine and feces.
In terms of its anatomy, the pelvic inlet is defined by a bony ring composed of the sacral promontory (the anterior superior edge of the sacrum), the arcuate lines on the inner surfaces of the ilium bones (part of the hip bones), and the superior margin of the pubic symphysis (where the two pubic bones connect). These structures create a stable and durable border that supports the weight of the abdominal organs and provides attachment sites for various ligaments and muscles.
The shape and size of the pelvic inlet vary among individuals, with slight differences between males and females. In females, the pelvic inlet tends to have a wider and more oval shape to accommodate the passage of a baby during childbirth. Alternatively, in males, the pelvic inlet is generally more heart-shaped and narrower due to the absence of childbirth requirements.
Overall, the pelvic inlet serves as a crucial landmark in understanding the pelvic anatomy and is of utmost importance in obstetrics, gynecology, urology, and other medical disciplines involved in the study and treatment of pelvic-related conditions.
Apertura pelvis superior, the upper opening into the pelvis the circumference of which is the brim of the pelvis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "pelvic" comes from the Latin word "pelvis", which means "basin". It is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *pelə-, meaning "container" or "vessel". The term "inlet" in this context refers to an opening or entrance. Therefore, the term "pelvic inlet" refers to the opening or entrance into the pelvis.