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Sacral morphological variations in the Korean population using PMCT-based 3D reconstruction: a case series
Hyung-Wook Kwon1, Jeonghyun Park1, Jaeho Cho2
1Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, 24341, Republic of Korea.
Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy : SRA
|May 21, 2026
Summary
Sacral morphology varies significantly, even without overt anomalies. Individualized assessment of sacral segmentation and lumbar vertebral count is crucial for accurate anatomical interpretation and clinical procedures.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Radiology
- Anthropology
Background:
- Sacral morphology exhibits variations influenced by lumbar vertebral count.
- Understanding these variations is key, as conventional definitions of lumbosacral fusion may be insufficient.
- This study focuses on sacral morphological variations in a Korean population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze sacral morphological variations in Koreans, focusing on sacral foramina number and configuration.
- To describe sacral features independent of overt transitional anomalies.
- To highlight limitations of definitions based solely on lumbosacral fusion.
Main Methods:
- Utilized postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) data from three Korean individuals.
- Reconstructed 3D models using Mimics software for detailed analysis.
- Documented sacral segmentation, lumbar vertebral counts, and morphometric parameters (SL, SW, STD, VDSA).
Main Results:
- Case 1: 5 lumbar vertebrae, unilateral L5 non-fusion, asymmetric sacroiliac surfaces.
- Case 2: 4 lumbar vertebrae, bilateral L5-sacral fusion, indistinct S1-S2 boundary.
- Case 3: 5 lumbar vertebrae, 6-segmented sacrum (S1-S6), symmetrical auricular surfaces.
Conclusions:
- Sacral elongation and auricular surface remodeling can occur independently of lumbar vertebral number.
- Individualized morphometric assessment is vital for procedures like sacroiliac joint fusion and caudal epidural anesthesia.
- Considering both sacral segmentation and lumbar vertebral counts improves anatomical interpretation and clinical applicability.
