Sacral rib: an uncommon congenital anomaly

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Anatomical Variations
• Congenital Anomalies

Background:

• Sacral rib is an uncommon pathology characterized by rib-like structures originating from the sacrum.
• Supernumerary ribs are rare in the sacrococcygeal region, making sacral rib an extremely rare finding.

Observation:

• A 17-year-old female presented with low back and bilateral gluteal pain.
• Radiographs and CT revealed a sacral rib on the left, with a hypoplastic and deviated sacrum.
• MRI demonstrated partial gluteus maximus muscle insertion onto the sacral rib.

Findings:

• The sacral rib was identified as a smooth, rod-like bony structure attached to the sacrum.
• Conservative management successfully alleviated the patient's symptoms, obviating the need for surgery.
• The sacral rib was distinct from the coccyx, with no observed ligamentous connection.

Implications:

• Sacral rib is a rare congenital anomaly typically managed conservatively.
• Imaging with CT and/or MRI is crucial for diagnosis and understanding anatomical relationships.
• Distinguishing sacral rib from pelvic rib is important, as they represent different entities with potential implications for childbirth in women.