Where it is
Base of the trunk. Each hip bone is three fused bones: ilium, ischium and pubis, which meet at the acetabulum (hip socket).
What it does
Supports the trunk, protects the bladder, reproductive organs and rectum, and provides attachment for powerful hip and thigh muscles. The female pelvis is wider with a rounder inlet for childbirth.
Clinical relevance
- The iliac crest is a landmark for the ventrogluteal injection site and for bone marrow biopsy.
- Pelvic fractures can bleed heavily into the pelvis and cause hypovolemic shock.
- Hip fractures in older adults: the leg is shortened and externally rotated.
Nursing focus
- After a pelvic fracture, monitor for signs of internal bleeding: falling blood pressure, rising heart rate and pallor.
- Locate the ventrogluteal site with the palm on the greater trochanter, index finger on the anterior superior iliac spine.