Lecture 3: Back Arthrology

Question 1

uncovertebral joint (of luschka)

Answer 1

at cervical intervertebral joint between uncinate process of inferior vertebra and beveled inferior surface of superior vertebra

Question 2

hyperextension or whiplash

Answer 2

• excessive stretching or even tearing of anterior longitudinal ligament
• recoil effect can result in hyperflexion injury as well

Question 3

splinting action of what ligament should be used when fracture of vertebral column is suspected.

Answer 3

anterior longitudinal Ligament

Question 4

in what position should patient be kept when fracture of vertebral column occurs

Answer 4

hyperextension

Question 5

where does herniation typically occur

Answer 5

posterolaterally where annulus fibrosis receives no support from anterior and posterior longitudinal Ls.

Question 6

what does herniation compress

Answer 6

• spinal nerve roots
• cauda equina
• spinal nerves in vertebral canal and intervertebral foramina

Question 7

what does herniation most commonly occur

Answer 7

L4/L5 and L5/S1 where discs are much larger and more mobile

Question 8

second number rule

Answer 8

for cervical and lumbar regions the vertebral level at which prolapse occurs will affect the spinal nerve with the second number designation
(prolapse at C5/C6 will affect spinal nerve 6)

Question 9

atlantooccipital joint

Answer 9

condyloid synovial joint

-between atlas and basilar occipital bone

Question 10

median atlantoaxial joint

Answer 10

-trochoid synovial joint

between anterior facet of dens of axis and articular facet for dens on atlas

Question 11

lateral atlantoaxial joint

Answer 11

planar synovial joint

-between sup and inf articulating processes of atlas and axis

Question 12

lumbosacral joint

Answer 12

compound joint (symphysis and planar synovial)
between L5 and sacrum