What is Sacralization of the spine?

What is Sacralization of the spine?

Sacralization is a congenital vertebral anomaly of the lumbosacral spine (fusion between L5 and the first sacral segment) [1]. This alteration may contribute to incorrect identification of a vertebral segment. Several studies have described the occurrence of this anomaly in a back pain population [2–7].

What are vertebras?

The vertebrae (back bones) of the spine include the cervical spine (C1-C7), thoracic spine (T1-T12), lumbar spine (L1-L5), sacral spine (S1-S5), and the tailbone. Each vertebra is separated by a disc. The vertebrae surround and protect the spinal cord.

How many vertebrae’s are in the lumbar?

Five vertebrae
Lumbar (lower back): Five vertebrae (L1 to L5) make up the lower part of the spine. Your lumbar spine supports the upper parts of the spine. It connects to the pelvis and bears most of your body’s weight, as well as the stress of lifting and carrying items. Many back problems occur in the lumbar spine.

What transverses the vertebral foramen?

The transverse foramen (foramen transversarium) of cervical vertebrae is an opening that is occupied by the vertebral artery and vein in the first six vertebrae and only the vertebral vein in the seventh. The vertebral artery is of particular importance because it serves the brain and spinal cord.

Does Sacralization need surgery?

Surgery may be recommended to correct specific disc or other abnormalities that result from the sacralization. For example, sacralization may cause strain on the disc between the fourth and fifth vertebrae, leading to disc slippage or degeneration.

What are the three boundaries of the vertebral foramen?

Boundaries

• anterior: lower posterolateral aspect of a vertebral body and the intervertebral disc below, in the thoracic and lumbar regions.
• posterior: facet joint and associated fibrous joint capsule.
• superior: inferior vertebral notch of the pedicle.
• inferior: superior vertebral notch of the pedicle below.

Is sacralisation serious?

For example, sacralization may cause strain on the disc between the fourth and fifth vertebrae, leading to disc slippage or degeneration. It can also cause compression of the spinal nerve and pain in your spine or legs, scoliosis, or sciatica.