Assessment of the variability in the clinically relevant dimensions of the pelvis in South Africans

Abstract

The dimensions of the pelvis are important when performing pelvic procedures and during obstetrics. The aim was to assess the clinically relevant dimensions of the pelvis, in South Africans. Eighty intact cadaver pelves and 303 os coxae, from the Northern Gauteng area were sampled. Five points on the os coxae and 12 on the intact pelves were marked, digitized for shape analysis and distances measured. Statistical comparisons were made between sex-population groups and according to stature. Smaller peri-obturator dimensions in blacks and shorter individuals exposed the obturator nerve during procedures, whilst in taller males and whites, the greater dimensions endangered the pudendal nerve branches. The deeper, narrower pelvic canal and broader ischiopubic rami in males may complicate pelvic procedures. The smaller pelvic inlet and midpelvis, whilst similar outlet diameters in black females contributed to pelvic canal shape differences. Shorter black women, poses a risk for CPD according to established recommendations.