Vertebral Column and Cervical Spine Anatomy

Flashcards for reviewing the anatomy and procedures related to the cervical spine and vertebral column.

What functions does the vertebral column serve?

Encloses and protects the spinal cord, supports trunk and skull, and provides muscle attachments.

How many vertebrae are there in the human vertebral column during early life?

There are a total of 33 vertebrae in early life.

What are the two types of vertebrae, and how are they categorized?

True, movable vertebrae (24 total) and false, fixed vertebrae (sacral and coccygeal segments).

What are the five groups that the vertebral column is divided into?

Cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal vertebrae.

What are the two types of spinal curves in the vertebral column?

Lordotic curves (convex anteriorly) and kyphotic curves (concave anteriorly).

What is scoliosis?

A condition characterized by abnormal lateral curvature of the spine.

What is kyphosis?

A condition of increased kyphotic curve of the thoracic spine.

What are the two main parts of a typical vertebra?

The body (anterior) and vertebral arch (posterior).

What is the vertebral foramen?

The space enclosed by the vertebral arch and body that the spinal cord passes through.

What are the components that make up the vertebral arch?

Two pedicles and two laminae.

What is the significance of transverse foramina in cervical vertebrae?

They allow the passage of the vertebral arteries.

What is unique about the first two cervical vertebrae (C1 and C2)?

They are atypical and are called the atlas (C1) and axis (C2), which support the skull.

What is the purpose of intervertebral disks?

They act as cushions between vertebrae, allowing for movement and absorbing shock.

What is a herniated nucleus pulposus (HNP)?

A condition commonly known as a 'slipped disk' where the central soft mass of an intervertebral disk protrudes.

How is C7 unique among the cervical vertebrae?

C7 is known as the vertebra prominens due to its long, prominent spinous process.

What is the appropriate patient position for an AP open-mouth projection?

The patient should be supine with the mouth open as wide as possible.

What technique should be used for the lateral C-spine projection?

The patient's shoulders should be relaxed and in the same horizontal plane.

What is the CR angle for the AP axial C-spine projection?

The CR should be directed 15 to 20 degrees cephalad through C4.

What is the purpose of the lateral cervicothoracic (swimmer's technique) projection?

To demonstrate the C7 vertebra when it is not well seen on a standard lateral C-spine projection.

What factors should be considered for patient preparation before cervical spine procedures?

Removal of artifacts such as earrings, necklaces, dentures, and glasses.