What Are Sacral and Back Dimples?

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Sacral and back dimples are small indentations or depressions that can be found on the lower back. These dimples are often congenital and can be indicators of underlying anatomical structures or conditions. Understanding these features is important for both clinical practice and general health awareness.

Sacral Dimples

Sacral dimples, also known as pilonidal dimples, are small indentations located near the sacrum, just above the buttocks. These dimples are usually harmless and are present at birth. They are often shallow and do not pose any health risks. However, in some cases, sacral dimples can be associated with underlying spinal abnormalities such as spina bifida occulta, a mild form of spina bifida where the spinal cord does not close completely.

Back Dimples

Back dimples, also known as “dimples of Venus,” are symmetrical indentations located on the lower back, just above the buttocks. These dimples are named after Venus, the Roman goddess of beauty, and are considered a sign of beauty in some cultures. Unlike sacral dimples, back dimples are not associated with any medical conditions and are purely a cosmetic feature.

Clinical Relevance

While sacral and back dimples are generally benign, their presence can sometimes be a point of clinical interest. For instance, sacral dimples may warrant further investigation if they are accompanied by other signs such as a tuft of hair, skin discoloration, or a deep pit, which could indicate underlying spinal issues. In contrast, back dimples are typically not a cause for medical concern.

Postoperative Considerations

In the context of surgical procedures, particularly those involving the lower back or pelvis, the presence of sacral dimples can be relevant. For example, a study aimed to test the effectiveness of a sacral wedge in preventing postoperative back pain following trans-urethral resection of the prostate (TURP) in the lithotomy position found that the use of a sacral wedge did not significantly reduce the incidence of postoperative back pain1. This highlights the need for further research and strategies to manage postoperative back pain effectively.

Conclusion

Sacral and back dimples are common anatomical features that are usually harmless. While sacral dimples can sometimes indicate underlying spinal conditions, back dimples are purely cosmetic. Understanding these features can aid in clinical assessments and postoperative care, ensuring better health outcomes for patients.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

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