Extra credit questions (Transition zones) Flashcards
What T11 facet orientation changes may accompany lumbarization?
the inferior articular facet may change from flat, forward, medial, and downward to convex, forward, lateral, and downward; the superior articular facet is unchanged
What is the usual way of identifying the number of cervicals, thoracics and lumbar vertebrae during imaging studies?
Identify the vertebrae with ribs -they will be thoracics; those higher are cervicals, those lower are lumbars
What is characteristic of lumbarization of S1?
the failure of synostosis between S1 and S2 squaring of the vertebral body of S1 and flaring of the sacral ala
What is falure of synostosis between S1 and S2?
the segments do not completely fuse together
What is squaring of the vertebral body of S1?
the S1 vertebral body has similar anterior and posterior heights, hence a lack of wedging
What is flaring of the sacral ala?
the transverse process of the ala appears to elevate as though separating from the rest of the sacral ala
What articular facet changes accompany lumbarization of S1?
none
What is characteristic of sacralization of L5?
L5 may be partially or completely fused to the sacrum
What is the incidence of sacralization of L5 in the population?
41% to 85%
Which segment demonstrates the greatest morphological variation along the spine?
L5
What articular facet changes accompany sacralization of L5?
none
What is the incidence of variation within the sacrococcygeal region in the population?
up to 14%
What is characteristic of sacralization of Co1?
the premature fusion of Co1 to the sacrum
What is characteristic of coccygealization of S5?
the separation of S5 from sacrum and its’ premature fusion to Co1
