Exam 3: Cervical Anatomy Flashcards
The supraspinous ligament is re-named as it continues to cranium. Here it is called the: ________________.
ligamentum nuchae
Composition of the ligamentum nuchae
fibroelastic composition
Function of the ligamentum nuchae
- helps passively support head in upright position
- stretches a bit, has recoil
Can the ligamentum nuchae alone support the head? What are the implications?
- yes
- decreases metabolic demand for holding head upright » kinda important
What happens to the ligamentum nuchae with prolonged flexion?
- adaptive lengthening
- requires more muscle activity to hold head up
The vertebral artery branches off this artery and ascends through here
- subclavian artery
- ascends through transverse foramen
Where is the vertebral artery located in the neck?
- IMMEDIATELY anterior to exiting spinal nerve roots
- runs almost parallel to vertebral body
Why is it important that the vertebral artery runs parallel to the vertebral body?
- during flex/ext, the artery is more protected
- doesn’t get stretched/pulled/compressed
What are the sx of vertebral artery compression?
- nausea
- vertigo
- visual changes
- nystagmus
- 5 D’s
What are the 5 D’s (again)?
- drop attacks
- dizziness
- diplopia
- dysphagia
- dysarthria
Vertebral arteries are NOT the only source of dizziness from
c-spine
Why are the vertebral artery sx expected with compression?
- artery supplies blood flow to the brain
- close proximity to cranial nerves
Normal artery and compression
- not really subject to compression
- can put them in compromising positions
- people with (+) tests usu have vascular issues that have narrowed the artery
Clues to vertebral artery issues:
- PMH DM
- HTN
- hyperlipidemia
- other CV problems
- hx of CABG
- smoker
Size and shape of central (vertebral) canal in the c-spine
- large
- triangular
Why is the large, triangular shape of the central canal important?
- accommodate thickening of SC to associated with formation of cervical and brachial plexuses
- ample space for brainstem
- EVERYTHING is passing through to supply UEs, head, etc.
- don’t need as much in lumbar because SC becomes cauda equina
The diameter of the central canal is greates in what position?
full flexion
The diameter of the central canal is least in what position?
full extension
clinical relevance of canal diameter for pt with stenosis
may be more vulnerable to SC sx during hyperextension activities
