Soft tissue structures of vertebral column Flashcards
What are the components of intervertebral discs?
Annulus fibrosis and nucleus pulposus
What is the annulus fibrosis?
Concentric fibrous rings attached to adjacent vertebrae. Provide stability by holding vertebrae together. Resists stretching of intervertebral disc space.
What is the nucleus pulposus?
Embryological remnant of the notochord. Gelatinous cushion embedded in annulus fibrosis. Shock absorption
How many intervertebral ligaments are there?
5 (6 dog and horse)
Name the intervertebral ligaments
Dorsal longitudinal ligament
Ventral longitudinal ligament
Interspinous ligament
Interarcuate ligament
Supraspinous ligament
(Nuchal ligament)
Describe the nuchal ligament in the dog
Cranial extension of the supraspinous ligament to the caudal aspect of C2 as a chord of fibroelastic material Provides passive support for the head.
Describe the nuchal ligament in the horse
Funicular part = chord, continuation of the supraspinous ligament, runs to nuchal crest of occipital bone
Laminar part = fenestrated sheet, runs from funicular part to cervical vertebrae Supports head and neck
Identify the intervertebral ligaments
Identify the components of the nuchal ligament in the horse
Name the costal ligaments
Intercapital ligament - between heads of corresponding pairs of ribs; supports intervertebral disc; ribs 1-10
Costo-transverse ligament - tuberculum to transverse process
Radiate ligament - ventrally; holds rib head in place; merges with annulus fibrosis
Label the costal ligaments
What is the vertebral formula of the dog?
C7 T13 L7 S3 Ccvariable
What is the vertebral formula of the horse?
C7 T18 L7 S3 Ccvariable
What is the vertebral formula for ruminants?
C7 T13 L6 S5 Ccvariable
