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3D OSTEOLOGY
3D VERTEBRAL COLUMN

CERVICAL VERTEBRAE ANATOMY

Cervical vertebrae anatomy 360-degree interactive viewer showing seven vertebrae including atlas C1, axis C2, vertebra prominens C7, and typical C3-C6 structure with foramen transversarium

Cervical Vertebrae - Overview, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CERVICAL OVERVIEW

  • The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae
  • C1 (atlas), C2 (axis), and C7 (vertebra prominens) are clearly recognisable
  • C3–C6 share similar structural characteristics

GENERAL FEATURES

  • Cervical vertebrae are the smallest true vertebrae
  • Identified by a foramen in each transverse process (foramen transversarium)
  • The features described below characterize C3–C6
    • C1, C2, and C7 have unique structures
Cervical vertebra detailed 360-degree viewer showing vertebral body with uncinate processes, foramen transversarium, bifid spinous process, articular pillar, and anterior posterior tubercles

Cervical Vertebra - Detailed Structure, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

BODY

Uncinate process of cervical vertebra projecting upward from the superior surface of the vertebral body forming lateral boundary

Uncinate Process of Cervical Vertebra, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

  • The vertebral body is small and wider from side to side than front to back
  • The upper surface is concave and has raised edges called uncinate processes
    • Uncinate processes project upward from the body
  • The lower surface fits the vertebra below using shallow lateral depressions

PEDICLES AND LAMINAE

Foramen transversarium in transverse process transmitting vertebral artery vein and sympathetic nerves in C1-C6 cervical vertebrae

Foramen Transversarium, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

  • Pedicles extend backward and slightly outward from the body
    • Form superior and inferior vertebral notches
  • Laminae are narrow and form a large triangular vertebral foramen

SPINOUS PROCESS

  • The spinous process is short and commonly bifid

ARTICULAR PROCESSES

  • The superior and inferior articular processes form a vertical column on each side called the articular pillar
  • Superior facets face upward and backward
  • Inferior facets face downward and forward

TRANSVERSE PROCESSES

Anterior tubercle located in front of foramen transversarium on cervical vertebra transverse process with spinal nerve groove

Anterior Tubercle of Transverse Process, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

  • Each transverse process contains a foramen transversarium
    • Carries the vertebral artery, vein, and sympathetic nerves in C1–C6
  • Each transverse process has two parts:
    • The anterior part forms the anterior tubercle, located in front of the foramen
    • The posterior part forms the posterior tubercle, located behind the foramen
  • A groove for the spinal nerve lies on the upper surface between the anterior and posterior tubercles

BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. Henry G, Warren HL. Osteology. In: Anatomy of the Human Body. 20th ed. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger; 1918. p. 129–97.

⋮⋮ Cervical Vertebrae Quiz
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