7.9 Osteology of the Cervical Vertebrae Flashcards
1
Q
When might we perform an x-ray of the spine?
A
- Suspected fractures, malalignments
- In the setting of arthritis
- Infection, bony lesions
(bony structures)
2
Q
When might we perform a CT of the spine?
A
- Better definition of bone than X-ray.
- Soft tissue is better than X-ray, but nowhere near as good as MRI.
3
Q
When might we perform an MRI of the spine? (Be specific)
A
- Soft tissue incl. spinal cord
- Oedema
- Paraspinal muscles, haematomas etc.
4
Q
Do the cervical nerve roots exit above or below the cervical vertebrae? How does this affect the number of cervical nerves?
A
- Above
- This allows for 8 cervical nerve roots, despite only 7 cervical vertebrae
5
Q
Why might X ray not be the best option in the case of suspected cervical spine fracture?
A
- Up to 20% are missed
- If suspicion of fracture, go straight to CT
6
Q
How many mm of anterior space can there be at C2/C7 before an X ray becomes abnormal?
A
7mm at C2
22mm at C7
7
Q
To which section(s) of the spine does the 3 column rule of stability apply?
A
Lumbar
