In this chapter we will review the traumatic injuries of the organs of the pelvis, which will include the urinary bladder, the rectum, the anal canal, and the internal genital organs.  Although the rectum and anal canal represent the terminal portions of the gastrointestinal tract, only the rectum lies within the pelvis.  However, for the sake of continuity we will consider the two parts together.

As in previous chapters, the first part of this chapter will be devoted to the relevant anatomy of the pelvis and its contained organs.  As discussed previously, the purpose of a discussion of the relevant anatomy is two fold.  First, it will constitute a review of the anatomy for the medical students, pathology residents, forensic pathology fell0ws, forensic nurses, emergency room residents, and trauma surgeon residents, aiding them in understanding the pathophysiologic dynamics of traumatic injuries to the pelvis and its contained organs.  Second, since this educational blog may also be used by medicolegal investigators, paramedics, law enforcement personnel, and attorneys who have little knowledge of anatomy, such a review will help them to develop a better understanding of the affects of trauma on the victims.

There will also be a discussion of the mechanisms of injury to the pelvic cavity and its contained organs.

This chapter contains a discussion of sexual abuse, male and female, adults, children and infants.  Due to the subject matter, the illustrations depicting sexual abuse injuries are graphic by their very nature.

Traumatic Inuries of the Organs of the Pelvis- Adult and Pediactric