Spine and Thorax Flashcards
Thoracic Spinous Processes (T-spine)
Smaller and closer together than their lumbar counterparts and angle downwards.
Cervicle Spinous Processes (C-spine)
Shorter and smaller than the thoracic processes. Because of the lordotic curve in the cervicle spine and the overlying ligamentum nuchae, the cervicle spinous processes are actually deeper than the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae. The first cervicle vertebra (C-1), or atlas as it is called, is the only vertebra that does not have a spinous process.
Spinous Processes of The Lumbar Vertebrae (L-spine)
Much larger than the thoracis or cervicle processes. Tall and stocky, the tips of the lumbar processes may feel more like short strips than points. The bodies of these vertebrae are quite massive and tall; they may have a finger’s width of space between their process.
C-7 and Base of Neck
The spinous process of C-7 is located at the base of the neck. It protrudes further than C-6, C-5 and C-4, a helpful distinction when locating structures in the upper back and neck..
T-2 (superior angle of scapula)
T-7 (inferior angle if scapula)
The inferior angle of the scapula will generally lie at the level of the spinous process of T-7, while the superior angle is at the level of T-2.
T-12 / Twelfth Rib
The twelfth rib has a slender, spear-like shape and angles inferiorly. It may vary in length between three to six inches and can be used as a locator for the spinous process of T-12.
The eleventh and twelfth ribs DO NOT attach to the costal cartilage and are therefore considered “floating ribs”.
L-4 and Iliac Crest
A line drawn between the tops of the two iliac crests will cross the spinous process of L-4, which, in turn, leads you to its neighbouring processes.
Transeverse Processes of the Cervical (TVPs)
Located on the side of the neck.
TVP’s extend inferiorly from the mastoid process.
TVP’s are the same width except for the TVP’s of C-1, which are much wider. (TVP’s of C-1 are located just distal and anterior to the tip of the mastoid process, relatively accessible)
Spinous Processes of Cervicals
Spinous processes of C-3 to C-6 protrude posteriorly to approximately the same extent. The process of C-2, however, is larger and more distinct.
Cervical Lamina Groove
Lamina groove is the troughlike space between the spinous and transverse processes of the vertebrae.
Transeverse Processes of the Thoracic and Lumbar Vertebrae
The TVPs of the thoracic vertebrae are shorter and do not extend as far laterally as the TVPs of the lumbar vertebrae.
Palpable deep to the erector spinae muscles and superficial to the connecting aspect of the ribs.
Extending an inch or two laterally, their solid presence can be felt beneath the overlying muscle tissue.
Lamina Groove of the Thoracic and Lumbar Vertebrae
Located between their spinous and transverse processes.
Shaped like a long, vertical trough, expands in depth and width as it progresses down the spine.
Where is the Jugular Notch Located?
Between the sternal heads of the clavicles.
May be flat or bowl shaped.
Where is the Manubrium Located?
Superior portion of the sternum.
Articulates with the clavicles, the first rib and the second rib.
Where is the Body of the Sternum Located?
Inferior to the manubrium.
Forms the major portion of the sternum.
