Final answer:
A Robert Jones bandage or compression bandage is typically used to immobilize a pelvic limb, providing necessary stability and support in conjunction with the pelvis's natural immobile structure reinforced by ligaments like the sacroiliac, sacrospinous, and sacrotuberous.
Step-by-step explanation:
To immobilize a pelvic limb, the type of bandage commonly used is called a Robert Jones bandage or a compression bandage. This bandage is designed to provide stability to the pelvic area by compressing and supporting the limb. It helps in circumstances where the pelvis or the pelvic limb needs to be immobilized due to injury or surgery. The immobility of the pelvis, which contrasts with the high mobility of the bones of the pectoral girdle, is key to maintaining this stability, as the weight of the body is transferred through the pelvic girdle. Several ligaments, such as the anterior and posterior sacroiliac ligaments, the sacrospinous ligament, and the sacrotuberous ligament, strongly unite the bones of the pelvis, providing support and additional immobilization, which are important functions when using a pelvic limb bandage. Consequently, the Robert Jones bandage facilitates this stabilization and weight-bearing function by providing compression and support to the injured area.