Pelvis x-ray

Sacrum

The sacrum is a shield-shaped bony structure that is located at the base of the lumbar vertebrae and that is connected to the pelvis. The sacrum forms the posterior pelvic wall and strengthens and stabilizes the pelvis. Joined at the very end of the sacrum are two to four tiny, partially fused vertebrae known as the coccyx or “tail bone”. The coccyx provides slight support for the pelvic organs but actually is a bone of little use.

Also known as: X-ray - pelvis

Definition

A pelvis x-ray is a picture of the bones surrounding the hip area. The pelvis connects the legs to the body.

How the test is performed

The test is performed in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider's office by an x-ray technician. You will be asked to lie down on the table. The pictures are then taken, with the body repositioned to provide different views.

How to prepare for the test

Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant. Remove all jewelry. You will wear a hospital gown.

How the test will feel

There is no discomfort except possibly from positioning the body.

Why the test is performed

The x-ray is used to detect fractures, tumors, or degenerative conditions of bones in the hips, pelvis, and upper legs.

What abnormal results mean

Abnormal results may suggest:

  • Pelvic fractures
  • Arthritis of the hip joint
  • Tumors of the bones of the pelvis
  • Sacroiliitis (inflammation of the area where the sacrum joins the ilium bone)
  • Ankylosing spondylitis (abnormal stiffness of the spine and joint)

What the risks are

There is low radiation exposure. However, pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks of x-rays.

References

Rogers LF, Taljanovic MS, Boles CA. Skeletal trauma. In: Grainger RC, Allison D, Adam, Dixon AK, eds. Grainger & Allison's Diagnostic Radiology. 5th ed. New York, NY: Churchill Livingstone; 2008:chap 46.

See also:

  • Disease

    Ankylosing spondylitis

    Skeletal spine

    Ankylosing spondylitis is a long-term disease that causes inflammation of the joints between the spinal bones, and the joints between the spine and pelvis. It eventually causes the affected spinal bones to join together. See also:

  • Test

    X-ray

    X-ray

    X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, just like visible light. In a health care setting, a machines sends are individual x-ray particles, called photons. These particles pass through the body. A computer or special film is used to record the images that are created. Structures that are ...

  • Injury

    Broken bone

    X-ray

    If more pressure is put on a bone than it can stand, it will split or break. A break of any size is called a fracture. If the broken bone punctures the skin, it is called an open fracture (compound fracture). A stress fracture is a hairline crack in the bone that develops because of repeated or ...

Review date:
July 10, 2009
Reviewed by:
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; and C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Assistant Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Dept of Orthopaedic Surgery. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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