Skeletal Self Assess Flashcards
(31 cards)
What are the four major components of the axial skeleton?
- Skull
- Vertebral Column
- Rib Cage
- Hyoid Bone
Each component has distinct functions related to protection, support, and attachment points for muscles.
What are the major functions of the skull?
- Protects the brain
- Houses sensory organs
- Provides attachment points for facial muscles
- Involved in chewing and facial expression
Includes cranial bones and facial bones.
What bones make up the vertebral column?
- 33 vertebrae
- Cervical region
- Thoracic region
- Lumbar region
- Sacral region
- Coccygeal region
The vertebral column supports the head and trunk, protects the spinal cord, and allows movement.
What is the major function of the rib cage?
- Protects heart, lungs, and major blood vessels
- Assists in breathing
- Provides attachment points for muscles
The rib cage includes 12 pairs of ribs and the sternum.
Where is the hyoid bone located and what are its major functions?
- Located in the neck, above the larynx
- Supports the tongue
- Attachment point for muscles involved in swallowing and speech
The hyoid bone is unique as it is not directly attached to other bones.
Classify the following bones: vomer, ethmoid, sphenoid, temporal, inferior nasal conchae.
- Vomer: Facial bone
- Ethmoid: Cranial bone
- Sphenoid: Cranial bone
- Temporal: Cranial bone
- Inferior Nasal Conchae: Facial bone
Classification helps in understanding their roles in the skeletal system.
What bone is fractured if the right superior lateral surface of the cranium is hit?
Parietal bone
The parietal bones form the superior lateral surfaces of the cranium.
What bones constitute the zygomatic arch?
- Temporal process of the zygomatic bone
- Zygomatic process of the temporal bone
The zygomatic arch is important for facial structure and muscle attachment.
In which bone is the foramen magnum located and what is its significance?
- Occipital bone
- Allows passage of the spinal cord to the brainstem
The foramen magnum is a crucial opening for central nervous system connectivity.
Which bone contains the sella turcica, and what structure is found within it?
- Sphenoid bone
- Pituitary gland
The sella turcica protects and supports the pituitary gland.
What is the only movable joint in the skull?
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
The TMJ allows for movements like chewing and speaking.
List the anatomical features that enable TMJ mobility.
- Articulation between mandible and temporal bone
- Articular disc for cushioning
- Synovial joint structure
- Ligaments for stabilization
- Muscle attachments for movement
These features ensure smooth and controlled motion.
What bones have the paranasal sinuses?
- Frontal bone
- Ethmoid bone
- Sphenoid bone
- Maxillae
These bones contain air-filled cavities that contribute to respiratory efficiency.
What are three functions of the paranasal sinuses?
- Lighten the weight of the skull
- Humidify and warm inhaled air
- Enhance voice resonance
Additional function: Immune defense through mucus production.
Why is the sphenoid bone called a keystone bone?
It has a central location and articulates with many other bones
This structural role is essential for cranial stability.
What is unique about the hyoid bone?
- Suspended by ligaments and muscles
- Does not join directly with other bones
- Floats above the larynx
Its independence makes it structurally unique compared to other bones.
What abnormality results from the failure of maxilla bones to fuse?
Cleft palate
This condition often occurs alongside a cleft lip.
Describe two functions of the fontanel.
- Aids in childbirth
- Allows for brain growth
Fontanels are soft spots in an infant’s skull.
What is hydrocephalus?
Fluid buildup in the brain
Key feature: Enlarged head in infants.
What is microcephaly?
Abnormally small head and brain
Key feature: Brain underdevelopment.
What part of each vertebra can be felt just beneath the skin?
Spinous processes
These projections serve as attachment points for muscles and ligaments.
How are the first two cervical vertebrae specialized?
- Atlas (C1): No body or spinous process; allows ‘yes’ motion
- Axis (C2): Contains dens; allows ‘no’ motion
These adaptations are crucial for head movement.
Why is the clavicle at risk of fracture during a fall?
It is a slender, superficial bone that absorbs shock
The clavicle links the upper limb to the axial skeleton.
Distinguish between the true pelvis and the false pelvis.
- True Pelvis: Below pelvic brim, involved in childbirth
- False Pelvis: Above pelvic brim, supports abdominal organs
The structure and function differ significantly.
