Atypical Lumbar: L5

Question 1

How many joint surfaces are present on the vertebral body of the 5th lumbar?

Answer 1

6

Question 2

What joint classifications will be observed at the vertebral body of the 5th lumbar?

Answer 2

Cartilaginous (amphiarthrosis) symphysis and fibrous (amphiarthrosis) syndesmosis

Question 3

What muscle(s) attach to the 5th lumbar vertebral body?

Answer 3

Psoas major

Question 4

What characteristic of the L1-L4 pedicle may be used to differentiate it from the L5 segment?

Answer 4

On cranial view, the lateral surface of the pedicle is apparent on a L1-L4 segment. At L5, the TVP originates from the vertebral body, pedicle and lamina-pedicle region

Question 5

What muscles may attach to the TVP of the 5th lumbar vertebra?

Answer 5

Psoas major, quadratus lumborum, longissimus thoracis, rotators and intertransversarii

Question 6

What ligaments traditionally attach to the TVP of the 5th lumbar vertebra?

Answer 6

Lumbosacral, iliolumbar, and mammillo-accessory ligaments

Question 7

What is the name(s) of the condition in which the L5 spinous process increases in length dues to the aging process?

Answer 7

Baastrup’s syndrome or kissing spine

Question 8

What is knife clasp syndrome?

Answer 8

The congenital condition in which the L5 spinous process is elongated, the sacrum exhibits spina bifida and dorsi flexion produces pain

Question 9

What muscles will attach to the 5th lumbar spinous process?

Answer 9

Latissimus dorsi, Iliocostalis lumborum, longissimus thoracis, multifidis, rotators, interspinalis