Will Iliac Crest implants Reduce The Vertical Distance Between The New Crest and the Ribcage?

Q: Dr. Eppley, What is the projection angle of iliac crest in reference to the spine? Would you say 45 degrees? The reason for my question is that I am trying to understand how much the iliac implant will add lateral prominence and height to the pelvic bones. Will the implant narrow the gap between the iliac crest and rib cage?

A: 45 degrees would be accurate assessment of the angulation of iliac crest implants on the bone.(see attached 3D CT scan) At a 45 degree angulation it would be fair to say that it would reduce the vertical distance between the new crest position and the 12^th rib.