Pelvis and Perineum

Ligamentous Anatomy

Natisha Busick, B.S., Eric Brandser, M.D., Alexander Sandra, Ph.D.
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed

To understand the supportive anatomical structures of the pelvis it is necessary to see the ligaments, as well. Viewing the pelvis from the anterior-posterior orientation, the iliolumbar and anterior sacroiliac ligaments can be observed. The iliolumbar ligament, as it's name implies, connect the lower lumbar spine to the ilium at the iliac crest and the inner concave surface of the iliac fossa. The anterior sacroiliac ligament connects the sacrum to the ilium in the same manner. The sacrotuberous ligament, sacrospinous ligament and the symphysis pubis can also be seen in this view. The symphysis pubis is a band of fibers that connects the two bones of the pubis.

The sacrotuberous and sacrospinous ligaments are best observed on a lateral view. The sacrotuberous ligament is a cartilaginous attachment of the sacrum to the ischial tuberosity. In the same respect, the sacrospinous ligament connects the sacrum to the ischial spine.

Changing our view from a lateral to a posterior, the iliolumbar ligament can be seen and the posterior sacroiliac ligaments becomes apparent. The sacroiliac ligament is a strong interosseous connection between the sacrum and ilium on the posterior surface. The sacrospinous and sacrotuberous ligaments are seen here, as well. All of these ligaments are supportive and connective in nature and serve to stabilize the muscles and organs within the pelvic girdle.

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