Why are C1 and C2 anatomically unique?

The first 2, C1 and C2, are highly specialized and are given unique names: atlas and axis, respectively. C3-C7 are more classic vertebrae, having a body, pedicles, laminae, spinous processes, and facet joints. C1 and C2 form a unique set of articulations that provide a great degree of mobility for the skull.

What is cervical spine radiography?

In a cervical (SER-vih-kul) spine X-ray, an X-ray machine sends a beam of radiation through the neck, and an image is recorded on special film or a computer. This image includes the seven vertebrae in the neck area, the first vertebrae of the thoracic spine, and the disk spaces between them.

What are the 4 characteristics that are distinguishing features of the cervical vertebrae?

The main anatomical characteristics of a typical cervical vertebra that separate it from other types of vertebrae are the small size, transverse foramina, saddle-shaped body, and bifid spinous process (Fig.

What part of the spine supports the head and neck?

cervical spine
The spinal cord traverse through a canal in the vertebral column called the spinal canal. The cervical spine protects it from external compression. Provide support to the head: The cervical spine holds the head in position and bears its weight.

What is the significance of the C3 C4 and C5 vertebrae?

The Relationship Between the C3, C4, & C5 Vertebrae These vertebrae protect the spinal cord running through the cervical region of the spine, as well as provide support for the neck and head. The C3, C4, & C5 vertebrae form the midsection of the cervical spine.

What is cervical spine AP and lateral?

X-Ray Cervical Spine AP & LAT View test is used to visualize the first seven vertebral bones (C1 – C7) of the spinal column (backbone) located in the neck region. This test helps visualize intervertebral discs and the surrounding soft tissues like skin and muscles.

What unique feature is present only on cervical vertebrae?

Typical cervical vertebrae have several features distinct from those typical of thoracic or lumbar vertebrae. The most notable distinction is the presence of one foramen, in each transverse process. These transverse foramina encircle the vertebral arteries and veins.

How do C1 and C2 differ from other vertebrae?

C1 is the topmost vertebra that holds the skull while the C2 is the second topmost vertebra that provides an axis to rotate skull and C1 when the head moves side to side. Therefore, this is the key difference between C1 and C2. Atlas vertebra is a synonym of C1 while the axis vertebra is a synonym of C2.

What is Anatomy of head and neck?

The head rests on the top part of the vertebral column, with the skull joining at C1 (the first cervical vertebra known as the atlas). The skeletal section of the head and neck forms the top part of the axial skeleton and is made up of the skull, hyoid bone, auditory ossicles, and cervical spine.