Intervertebral Disc: Introduction

Question 1

What is the classification of the intervertebral disc?

Answer 1

cartilaginous (amphiarthrosis) symphysis

Question 2

In the fetus, which vertebral levels will demonstrate intervertebral discs?

Answer 2

those between C2 and Co1 inclusive

Question 3

What is the number of true intervertebral discs identified in the adult?

Answer 3

23

Question 4

In the adult, which vertebral levels will demonstrate a true intervertebral disc?

Answer 4

those between C2 and S1 inclusive

Question 5

What percent of the vertebral column length is contributed by the intervertebral disc?

Answer 5

20-25%

Question 6

What is the length of the intervertebral disc contribution to the vertebral column length?

Answer 6

about 7 inches

Question 7

What is the percent of intervertebral disc height contribution to the length of each region of the vertebral column?

Answer 7

• cervical: 22-25%
• thoracic: 20%
• lumbar: 33%

Question 8

What is the intervertebral disc histologically composed of?

Answer 8

• cells
• collagen fibers
• hydrated proteoglycan gel

Question 9

What are the names of the central, peripheral, and horizontal zones of the intervertebral disc?

Answer 9

• nucleus pulposus (central zone)
• annulus fibrosus (peripheral zone)
• cartilaginous end plate (horizontal zone)

Question 10

What is the name of the growth zone of the intervertebral disc?

Answer 10

transition zone

Question 11

What maintains the height of the cervical intervertebral disc?

Answer 11

the uncinate process

Question 12

What is the effect of aging on the intervertebral disc nucleus pulposus?

Answer 12

it becomes more fibrous as water and proteoglycan concentrations diminish

Question 13

What are the names of the glycosaminoglycans of the intervertebral disc?

Answer 13

• keratin sulfate
• hyaluronic acid
• chondroitin-4-sulfate
• chondroitin-6-sulfate