Which region of the vertebral column consists of 5 fused vertebrae?

The region of the vertebral column that consists of five fused vertebrae is the sacrum. The sacrum is located at the base of the spine and is formed by the fusion of five individual sacral vertebrae during development. This fusion provides stability and strength to the pelvis, supporting the weight of the upper body and transmitting forces to the lower limbs.

In contrast, the coccyx, also known as the tailbone, consists of three to five fused vertebrae but does not comprise a set number of five. The lumbar region consists of five individual vertebrae, but they are not fused, allowing for a greater range of motion. The cervical region has seven individual vertebrae that remain distinct, supporting movement and flexibility of the neck. Thus, the sacrum is uniquely identified by its five fused vertebrae, critical for stabilizing the pelvis and connecting with the hip bones.