Columna Vertebralis and Related Terminology

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary related to the vertebral column (Columna vertebralis) and its associated structures.

Columna vertebralis

The vertebral column, consisting of various types of vertebrae.

Os vertebrae cervicalis

Cervical vertebrae, comprising 7 bones.

Os vertebrae thoracalis

Thoracic vertebrae, comprising 13 bones.

Os vertebrae lumbalis

Lumbar vertebrae, comprising 6 bones.

Os sacralis or Os coxidea

Sacral vertebrae, which are fused together.

Os costa

Rib bones.

Os sternum

Sternum or breastbone.

Os atlas

The first cervical vertebra, supports the skull.

Os axis

The second cervical vertebra, allows head rotation.

Foramen vertebrae

The central hole in a vertebra allowing for spinal cord passage.

Processus spinosus

The bony protrusion on the back of a vertebra.

Processus transversus

The lateral bony projections on a vertebra.

Margo cranialis

The upper edge of the rib.

Margo caudalis

The lower edge of the rib.

Extremitas sternalis

The end of the rib connected to the sternum.

Extremitas vertebralis

The end of the rib connected to the vertebra.

Insisura costalis

The notch in the sternum for rib attachment.