Sacrum Fracture
Medical term: Sacral Fracture
Overview
The sacrum is the large, triangular bone at the base of the spine that forms the back wall of the pelvis. Sacrum fractures can occur in isolation or as part of a larger pelvic ring injury. In younger patients, sacral fractures are typically caused by high-energy trauma such as motor vehicle accidents or falls from height. In older adults, particularly those with osteoporosis, sacral insufficiency fractures can develop from everyday activities.
Sacrum fractures deserve careful evaluation because the sacral canal houses nerve roots that control bladder, bowel, and lower extremity function. Our San Diego orthopedic trauma team uses advanced imaging and a thorough neurological assessment to determine the best treatment approach, whether that involves conservative management or surgical stabilization.