PA Anatomy: Pelvis: Summary

Summary:

1. Hernias can happen in various parts of the pelvis including the inguinal, femoral and obturator regions.

2. Hernias that pass through a very small, tight opening are at greater risk of losing their blood supply.

3. The renal and female genital tract share embryologic precursors, so if there is a malformity in one system, there may be corresponding abnormalities in the other.

4. The bladder is covered by peritoneum only superiorly, and is extraperitoneal in its lower portions, which can be important in understanding urinary trauma and leaks.

5. Contrast can be introduced into the bladder directly, as well as into the uterine cavity to detect abnormalities.

6. MRI can be helpful in assessing the female genital tract, and may require both T1 and T2 weighted images.

7. The pudendal nerve has a complex course in the posterior pelvis, passing through both greater and lesser sciatic foramina.