Intervertebral Disc: Introduction

Question 1

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

Answer 1

twenty-three

Question 2

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

Answer 2

those between C2 and S1 inclusive

Question 3

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

Answer 3

cervical… 22-25%; thoracic….20%; lumbar….33%

Question 4

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

Answer 4

nucleus pulposus…. central zone; annulus fibrosus…peripheral zone; cartilaginous end plate…horizontal zone