Final intervertebral disc introduction

Question 1

in the adult which vertebral levels will demonstrate a true intervertebral disc

Answer 1

those between C2 and S1 inclusive

Question 2

what is the percent of intervertebral disc height contribution to the length of each region of the vertebral column

Answer 2

Cervical 22-25%
thoracic 20%
lumbar 33%

Question 3

what is the intervertebral disc histology composed of

Answer 3

cells, collagen fibers, and a hydrated proteoglycan gel

Question 4

what are the names of the central, peripheral, and horizontal zones of the intervertebral disc

Answer 4

nucleaus pulposus…central zones;
annulus fibrosus…peripheral zone;
cartilaginous end plate…horizontal zone

Question 5

what is the name of the growth zone of the intervertebral disc

Answer 5

transition zone

Question 6

what maintains the height of the cervical intervertebral disc

Answer 6

the unicinate processes

Question 7

what is the effect of aging on the intervertebral disc nucleus pulposus

Answer 7

it becomes more fibrous as water and proteoglycan concentrations diminish

Question 8

what is the number of true intervertebral discs identified in the adult

Answer 8

23