*maybe study* Exam One Material 2.1-2.2 Flashcards
(48 cards)
What is the singular form of vertebrae?
Vertebra
What are the two main parts of a vertebra?
- Body
- Vertebral arch
What structure is formed by successive vertebral foramina?
Vertebral canal
What binds the vertebrae together?
Intervertebral discs and ligaments
Where are the muscles that move the vertebral column primarily located?
Posterior to the vertebral column
What is the function of the body of a vertebra?
Weight-bearing
What covers the intervertebral surfaces of vertebrae?
Hyaline cartilage (vertebral end plates)
What are the fused posterior components of the vertebral arch?
Two pedicles and two laminae
What are the indentations on the pedicles called?
- Superior vertebral notches
- Inferior vertebral notches
What do the vertebral notches of adjacent pedicles form?
Intervertebral foramina
How many processes extend from the vertebral arch?
Seven
What are zygapophyseal joints?
Joints between adjacent vertebrae
What is stenosis in the context of the vertebral column?
Narrowing of the spinal canal
What are the characteristics of typical cervical vertebrae?
- Small size
- Square-shaped body
- Triangular-shaped foramen
What is the primary function of the atlas (C1)?
Supports the skull
What is the dens and its function?
Perpendicular process on C2 acting as the axis for rotation of C1
What is a Jefferson’s fracture?
Fracture of C1 involving at least two fracture lines
What distinguishes C7 (vertebra prominens)?
Long spinous process and small or absent transverse foramina
What is the main characteristic of thoracic vertebrae?
Costal facets for rib articulation
What is the shape of lumbar vertebrae bodies?
Larger due to weight-bearing function
What is the sacrum composed of?
Typically five fused vertebrae
What is the function of the coccyx?
Remnant of the tail, consists of usually four fused vertebrae
How many vertebrae are in the adult vertebral column?
33 vertebrae
What is kyphosis?
Increased posterior convexity of the thoracic region