Cervical spine Flashcards
How many vertebrae make up the cervical spine?
There are 7 vertebrae in the cervical spine, labeled C1 to C7.
What is the name of the second cervical vertebra (C2), and what is its unique feature?
C2 is called the axis. Its unique feature is the odontoid process (dens), which allows for rotational movement of the head.
What is the name of the first cervical vertebra (C1), and what is its unique feature?
C1 is called the atlas. Its unique feature is that it lacks a vertebral body and has a ring-like structure to support the skull.
What is the function of the cervical spine?
The cervical spine supports the head, allows for a wide range of motion (flexion, extension, rotation, and lateral bending), and protects the spinal cord.
What is the vertebral foramen, and how does it differ in the cervical spine compared to other regions?
The vertebral foramen is the opening in each vertebra through which the spinal cord passes.
In the cervical spine, the vertebral foramen is larger and triangular to accommodate the spinal cord and provide flexibility.
What are the uncovertebral joints, and where are they located?
The uncovertebral joints (also called Luschka’s joints) are unique to the cervical spine. They are located between C3 and C7 and help with stability and motion.
How do the spinous processes of the cervical spine differ from those in the thoracic and lumbar regions?
The spinous processes in the cervical spine are shorter and often bifid (split into two parts), except for C7, which is longer and more prominent. In contrast, thoracic and lumbar spinous processes are longer and not bifid.
What is the role of the intervertebral discs in the cervical spine?
Intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers, allow for movement, and maintain the space between vertebrae. In the cervical spine, they are thinner compared to the lumbar region.
How does the range of motion in the cervical spine compare to the thoracic and lumbar regions?
The cervical spine has the greatest range of motion, allowing for flexion, extension, lateral bending, and rotation.
The thoracic spine is more rigid due to its attachment to the rib cage, and the lumbar spine primarily allows flexion and extension.
What is the significance of the transverse foramen in the cervical vertebrae?
The transverse foramen are small openings in the transverse processes of cervical vertebrae that allow the passage of the vertebral arteries, which supply blood to the brain.
How does the size of cervical vertebrae compare to thoracic and lumbar vertebrae?
Cervical vertebrae are smaller and more delicate compared to the larger and stronger thoracic and lumbar vertebrae, which bear more weight.
What is the role of the ligamentum nuchae in the cervical spine?
The ligamentum nuchae is a strong ligament that supports the head and neck, limits excessive flexion, and provides attachment points for muscles.
What is the clinical significance of the C7 vertebra?
C7, also called the vertebra prominens, is the most prominent cervical vertebra and is often used as a landmark for spinal examinations and procedures.
