Neck/Cervical Final (6%) Flashcards
What are the unique characteristics of cervical vertebrae (C3-C7)?
Transverse foramina, bifid spinous processes, intervertebral discs
What passes through the transverse foramina?
Vertebral artery
What is unique about the Atlas (C1)?
No body, articulates with occipital condyles, supports the skull
What is unique about the Axis (C2)?
Contains the dens, enabling pivot and rotation of the head
Is there an intervertebral disc between C1 and C2?
no
What type of joint are the facet joints?
Synovial joints lined with hyaline cartilage
What is the function of intervertebral discs in the cervical spine?
Absorb shock
What movement does the Atlanto-Occipital Joint allow?
Flexion and extension of the head (e.g., nodding)
What type of joint is the Atlanto-Axial Joint?
Synovial joint
Which ligament prevents hyperextension of the cervical spine?
Anterior Longitudinal Ligament
Which ligament prevents hyperflexion of the cervical spine?
Posterior Longitudinal Ligament
What is the function of the Ligamentum Nuchae?
Supports neck muscles and maintains head posture
Which ligaments provide rotational stability in the cervical spine?
Cruciform and Alar Ligaments
What does the subclavian artery supply?
Blood to the arms and head
What are the two branches of the common carotid artery?
Internal and external carotid arteries
What does the vertebral artery supply?
brain
Which cranial nerve provides parasympathetic control to organs?
Vagus nerve (CN X)
What is the role of the phrenic nerve?
Innervates the diaphragm, crucial for breathing
Which cranial nerve innervates the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles?
Accessory nerve (CN XI)
What is the significance of the brachial plexus?
Supplies nerves to the arm, originating from the neck
What structures can be damaged during whiplash injuries?
Cruciform and Alar Ligaments
What is the sympathetic trunk, and what does it control?
Extensions from the sympathetic nervous system, controlling blood vessels, sweat glands, pupil dilation, and heart rate
