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
