1. The cervical vertebral bodies are smaller and more delicate compared to the thoracic and lumbar vertebral bodies, as they are designed to support the weight of the head and allow for a greater range of motion in the neck.
2. The cervical vertebral bodies have a unique shape, with a small vertebral foramen and a bifid spinous process that allows for the attachment of muscles and ligaments that support the neck.
3. The cervical vertebral bodies have transverse foramina on each side, which allow for the passage of the vertebral arteries that supply blood to the brain.
4. The cervical vertebral bodies have a more pronounced anterior and posterior arch, which helps to protect the spinal cord and nerve roots in the neck.
5. The cervical vertebral bodies have facet joints that are oriented in a more horizontal plane, allowing for a greater range of motion in flexion, extension, and rotation of the neck.
6. The cervical vertebral bodies are more susceptible to injury due to their smaller size and increased mobility, making them more prone to fractures and dislocations in traumatic events.
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Google Gemini AI
2 days ago
Unique Properties of Cervical Vertebral Bodies
Compared to other vertebral bodies, cervical vertebral bodies exhibit several distinguishing features that adapt them to the unique functional demands of the neck:
1. Smaller in Size: - Cervical vertebral bodies are significantly smaller than those in other spinal regions, providing greater mobility and flexibility in the neck.
2. Ovoid Shape: - They are ovoid in shape, with a larger anterior surface and a smaller posterior surface. This shape allows for greater flexion and extension of the neck.
3. Presence of Transverse Foramen: - Each cervical vertebral body has a transverse foramen on either side, which transmits the vertebral artery and vertebral vein. These foramina are formed by the fusion of the pedicles and transverse processes.
4. Inferiorly Inclined Uncovertebral Joints: - The inferior surfaces of the cervical vertebral bodies are inclined inferiorly. This inclination creates an uncovertebral joint with the superior surface of the adjacent vertebra, allowing for some gliding and rotation.
5. Anterior and Posterior Tubercles: - The anterior and posterior surfaces of the cervical vertebral bodies have tubercles. The anterior tubercles are palpable and used as landmarks during physical examinations. The posterior tubercles provide attachment points for ligaments.
6. Accessory Processes: - Some cervical vertebrae (C3-C6) have accessory processes, also known as mammillary processes or "cornua." These processes project from the anterolateral surfaces of the vertebral bodies and serve as attachment sites for muscles.
7. Dental Facets on C2: - The second cervical vertebra (C2) has dental facets on its superior articular processes. These facets articulate with the lateral margins of the odontoid process of the atlas (C1), providing stability to the atlantoaxial joint.
8. Slender Peduncles and Laminae: - The peduncles and laminae of cervical vertebrae are relatively slender, which contributes to the neck's mobility and flexibility.
These unique properties of cervical vertebral bodies allow for the wide range of motion required in the neck, including nodding, shaking, and rotating the head.