Vertebral Column Quiz Questions And Answers

The correct answer is 33. The vertebral column, also known as the spine, is made up of a series of vertebrae. In humans, there are typically 33 vertebrae in total. These vertebrae are divided into different regions, including the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal regions. Each region has a specific number of vertebrae, with the cervical region having 7, the thoracic region having 12, the lumbar region having 5, the sacral region having 5 fused vertebrae, and the coccygeal region having 4 fused vertebrae. Therefore, the total number of vertebrae in the vertebral column is 33.

The mobility of the vertebral column is affected by multiple factors. The elasticity and compressibility of the intervertebral discs (IVDs) allow for movement and cushioning between the vertebrae. The shape of the zygapophyseal joints, which are the joints between the vertebrae, also influences mobility. The direction of the zygapophyseal joints determines the range of motion in different directions. Additionally, the resistance provided by ligaments and muscles surrounding the vertebral column affects its mobility. Therefore, all of the mentioned factors contribute to the overall mobility of the vertebral column.

The vertebral column is composed of 33 individual vertebrae, which are divided into several regions. These regions include the cervical (7 vertebrae), thoracic (12 vertebrae), lumbar (5 vertebrae), sacral (5 fused vertebrae), and coccygeal (4 fused vertebrae) regions. Therefore, there are a total of 5 regions in the vertebral column.

Scoliosis is the correct answer because it refers to the lateral deviation of the spine. It is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine. This deviation can cause the spine to curve to the left or right, resulting in an S or C-shaped appearance. Kyphosis refers to an excessive outward curvature of the spine, causing a hunchback appearance, while lordosis is an excessive inward curvature of the spine, leading to an exaggerated swayback posture.

A key feature of typical thoracic vertebrae is the presence of costal facets. These facets are small, smooth surfaces located on the sides of the vertebral bodies and transverse processes. They articulate with the heads of the ribs, forming the joints that allow for movement and stability of the ribcage. The costal facets are essential for connecting the thoracic vertebrae to the ribs, enabling the protection and support of the vital organs in the chest cavity.

A key feature of typical cervical vertebrae is the presence of transverse foramen. These are small openings on each side of the vertebrae that allow for the passage of the vertebral artery and vein. The transverse foramen is unique to cervical vertebrae and is an important anatomical feature that helps to distinguish them from other vertebrae in the spine.

The vertebral column is actually part of the axial skeleton, not the appendicular skeleton. The axial skeleton includes the skull, vertebral column, and ribcage, while the appendicular skeleton includes the bones of the limbs and the girdles that attach them to the axial skeleton.

Kyphosis is the correct answer because it refers to the abnormal curvature of the spine that causes a hunchback or dowager's hump. This condition is characterized by an excessive outward curve of the upper back, leading to a rounded appearance. Lordosis, on the other hand, is an abnormal inward curvature of the lower back, while scoliosis refers to a sideways curvature of the spine. "Crooked Back" is not a clinical term and does not accurately describe the condition.

The characteristics of the Axis mentioned in the given options are the presence of Dens with its ligaments and the fact that the Transverse processes are the smallest.

The anterior longitudinal ligament is located along the anterior surface of all the vertebral bodies. This ligament runs vertically down the length of the spinal column, attaching to the front of each vertebra. Its main function is to provide stability and prevent excessive movement of the vertebral column, particularly in flexion (forward bending). It also helps to maintain the natural curvature of the spine.

The correct answer is A & D. IVDs, or intervertebral discs, consist of the anulus fibrosus and the nucleus pulposus. The anulus fibrosus is the tough outer ring of the disc, while the nucleus pulposus is the gel-like center. Therefore, option A (Anulus fibrosus and Nucleus pulposus) and option D (Anulus fibrosus and Nucleus pulposus) are both correct.

The Atlas, also known as the C1 vertebra, has two lateral masses connected to two arches, giving it a ring-like structure. This unique characteristic allows for the articulation and movement of the head. The other characteristics mentioned, such as a very long spinous process, non-bifid, and the size of the transverse foramen and processes, are not specific to the Atlas and are not relevant to its defining features.

A key feature of typical lumbar vertebrae is the presence of mamillary processes. These are small bony projections located on the posterior aspect of the vertebrae, specifically on the superior articular processes. The mamillary processes serve as attachment sites for ligaments and muscles, providing stability and support to the lumbar spine. They also play a role in limiting excessive movement and rotation of the vertebrae.

A poster-lateral protrusion of the intervertebral disc between L4 and L5 vertebrae is likely to affect the L5 spinal nerve. This is because the spinal nerves are named after the vertebrae they are located below. In this case, the protrusion is occurring between L4 and L5, so it is most likely to compress or irritate the L5 nerve.

The primary curvature occurs when the baby begins to hold their head up. This is because the primary curvature refers to the natural curve in the spine that is present from birth. As the baby gains strength and control in their neck muscles, they are able to lift and support their head, which leads to the development of the primary curvature.

The vertebrae are interlocked via their articular processes. These processes are small bony projections that extend from the vertebrae and form joints with adjacent vertebrae. These joints allow for movement and flexibility in the spine. The articular processes help to stabilize the spine and prevent excessive movement between the vertebrae.

Spinal nerves exit the spine through the intervertebral foramen. The intervertebral foramen is the opening formed between adjacent vertebrae, allowing the spinal nerves to pass through and connect with various parts of the body. This pathway allows for the transmission of sensory and motor information between the spinal cord and the rest of the body.

The thoracic vertebrae have a heart-shaped body. This is because the thoracic vertebrae are located in the middle of the spine and are responsible for supporting the ribcage. The heart-shaped body allows for a larger surface area and provides stability and support for the ribs. The cervical vertebrae are located in the neck region and have a smaller, more rectangular body. The lumbar vertebrae are located in the lower back and have a larger, more rectangular body. The sacral vertebrae are fused together to form the sacrum and do not have a distinct body shape.

The typical lumbar vertebrae do not have a heart-shaped body. The body of a typical lumbar vertebra is larger and more cylindrical in shape compared to other vertebrae in the spine. It is designed to bear the weight of the upper body and provide stability. The absence of a transverse foramen, presence of a mamillary process, and an accessory process are all features that are typically found in lumbar vertebrae.

The cervical region of the spine is located in the neck area, and it is the only region where the spinal nerves emerge superior to their corresponding vertebrae. This means that the nerves exit the spinal cord and pass through the spaces between the cervical vertebrae before branching out to various parts of the body. In contrast, in the thoracic, lumbar, and sacral regions, the spinal nerves emerge inferior to their corresponding vertebrae.

In a caudal epidural anesthesia, the needle is inserted into the epidural space of the vertebral structure. The epidural space is the outermost part of the spinal canal, located between the dura mater (the protective covering of the spinal cord) and the vertebral canal. This space is filled with fat and blood vessels, and it is where the anesthetic medication is injected to numb the nerves and provide pain relief during procedures such as childbirth or surgery.

The most important feature of the thoracic vertebra is the presence of costal facets. These are small, smooth surfaces located on the sides of the vertebral bodies and transverse processes. They serve as the articulation points for the ribs, allowing for the attachment and movement of the ribcage. The costal facets are crucial in providing stability and support to the thoracic region, as well as facilitating the respiratory function of the ribcage during breathing.

The craniovertebral joint refers to the joint between the atlas (C1) and the axis (C2) vertebrae in the neck. This joint allows for rotation of the head. The term "Atlanto Axial" refers to this specific joint, making it the correct answer. Lushka, Zygapophyseal, and Uncovertebral are not craniovertebral joints.

The arch of a typical vertebrae is attached to the body through pedicles. Pedicles are short, thick processes that extend from the body of the vertebrae and help form the sides of the vertebral arch. They connect the body to the laminae, which are flat plates of bone that join together at the back of the vertebrae to complete the arch. Ligaments and processes are also present in the vertebrae, but they do not directly attach the arch to the body.

If the transverse ligament of the atlas, along with other ligaments, is ruptured, it can lead to a variety of serious consequences. The transverse ligament of the atlas is responsible for holding the atlas (C1 vertebra) in place and maintaining stability of the upper cervical spine. If it is ruptured, it can result in instability of the spine, potentially causing damage to the medulla oblongata (part of the brainstem), the spinal cord, or even death. Quadriplegia, which is paralysis of all four limbs, is also a possibility due to the damage to the spinal cord. Therefore, the possibility of all the above outcomes is likely if the transverse ligament of the atlas is ruptured.

The physician decides to perform a lumbar puncture to withdraw CSF from the subarachnoid space. This is because the subarachnoid space is the area between the arachnoid mater and the pia mater, which contains cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). In cases of suspected meningitis, a lumbar puncture can help diagnose the condition by examining the CSF for signs of infection or inflammation. The CSF in the subarachnoid space is in direct contact with the brain and spinal cord, making it an ideal location to obtain a sample for analysis.

Zygapophyseal joints are the joints of the vertebral arches. These joints connect the vertebrae and allow for movement and flexibility in the spine. They are synovial joints, which means they are surrounded by a joint capsule and contain synovial fluid. The zygapophyseal joints are important for maintaining the stability and alignment of the spine, as well as allowing for controlled movement and rotation. They are not cartilaginous joints, as stated in one of the options, and they are innervated by the dorsal primary rami, not the ventral primary rami as mentioned in another option.

The transverse foramen of a typical cervical vertebra is a small opening on the side of the vertebra through which the vertebral artery and vein pass. These blood vessels are responsible for supplying blood to the brain and other parts of the head and neck. However, supportive ligaments do not travel through the transverse foramen. Supportive ligaments are connective tissues that help stabilize and support the vertebrae, but they do not pass through the transverse foramen.

The sacral hiatus is an important clinical feature of the sacrum. It is a small opening at the bottom of the sacrum, where the sacral canal ends. This hiatus is clinically significant because it is used as a landmark for administering caudal epidural anesthesia, a procedure commonly used for pain management during childbirth or surgery. The injection is given through the sacral hiatus, allowing the medication to reach the nerves in the lower spinal region.

The region of the vertebral column that contains 5 vertebrae is the lumbar region (C). The lumbar region is located in the lower back and consists of 5 vertebrae. The cervical region (A) is in the neck and typically has 7 vertebrae, while the thoracic region (B) is in the upper back and usually has 12 vertebrae. The sacral region (D) is at the base of the spine and consists of fused vertebrae, and the coccyx (E) is the tailbone, which is also made up of fused vertebrae.

The ligament Flava is attached to the laminae of adjacent vertebrae. This ligament is a strong, elastic structure that runs along the posterior aspect of the vertebral column. Its main function is to help maintain the stability and flexibility of the spine. The attachment to the laminae of adjacent vertebrae allows the ligament Flava to provide support and limit excessive movement between the vertebrae.

The anterior longitudinal ligament is likely to rupture in a hyperextension injury. This ligament runs along the anterior surface of the vertebral bodies and helps to stabilize the spine. In a hyperextension injury, the spine is forced into excessive backward bending, which can put strain on the anterior longitudinal ligament and cause it to tear or rupture. This can lead to instability and potential damage to the spinal cord.

The vertebral venous plexus is located in multiple areas within the vertebral column. It can be found within the vertebral canal, in front of the bodies of the vertebrae, and on the posterior surfaces of the vertebral arches and their processes. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above."

In vertebrates, the typical vertebrae have seven processes. These processes include the spinous process, two transverse processes, two superior articular processes, and two inferior articular processes. These processes serve various functions such as providing attachment points for muscles, facilitating movement, and forming joints with adjacent vertebrae.

The transverse ligament of the atlas is the correct answer. This ligament holds the dens (the bony protuberance of the axis vertebra) in place, preventing it from compressing the spinal cord. If this ligament is damaged or weak, it can lead to instability and potential compression of the spinal cord, resulting in serious injury or paralysis.

The primary curvature of the vertebral column is caused by the height differences between the anterior and posterior parts of the vertebrae. This means that the anterior part of the vertebrae is taller than the posterior part, creating a curve in the spine. This curvature is present in the thoracic and sacral regions of the spine and is considered a normal anatomical feature.

The correct answer is L5 root. Disc herniation refers to the displacement of an intervertebral disc, causing compression or irritation of nearby nerves. In this case, the herniation is occurring at the L4/L5 level, which means that the L5 root, the nerve that exits the spinal cord at the L4/L5 level, is being damaged. This can result in symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back, buttocks, and legs, as well as potential issues with motor and sensory function.

The joints of Luschka are found in the cervical region. These joints, also known as uncovertebral joints, are located between the uncinate processes of adjacent vertebrae in the cervical spine. They play a role in maintaining stability and allowing for controlled movement in the neck. These joints can become degenerated or develop osteophytes, which can lead to symptoms such as neck pain and restricted range of motion.

The secondary curvature occurs when the baby starts to walk. This is because walking requires the baby to develop a more upright posture, which leads to the development of the secondary curvature in the spine. As the baby walks, the spine gradually adjusts and develops the natural curves that are characteristic of an adult spine. This is an important milestone in the baby's physical development and helps to support their balance and stability while walking.

The statement "Also called Facet Joints" is not a feature of Craniovertebral joints. Craniovertebral joints are synovial joints that permit flexion, extension, and lateral flexion. They are located between the cranial and vertebral bones, and there are two of them. However, they are not referred to as facet joints.

The correct answer is the transverse ligament of the atlas is not attached to the dens and prevents certain movement of the atlas via attachment to the occipital bone and posterior axis. This explains why the man in the automobile accident was able to move all four limbs and had the function of his diaphragm despite having an undisplaced fracture of the dens with rupture of the ligaments attached to it. The transverse ligament of the atlas plays a crucial role in stabilizing the atlas (C1) and preventing excessive movement, particularly rotation, between the atlas and the axis (C2). Without this attachment to the dens, the man was still able to maintain some degree of stability and function.

During hyperextension, the C5-C7 vertebrae act as the whip. This means that they perform the action of hyperflexion during this injury. Hyperflexion refers to the excessive forward bending of the neck, causing the head to move closer to the chest. Therefore, during hyperextension, the C5-C7 vertebrae move in a way that causes hyperflexion of the neck.

The correct answer is cervical. The cervical vertebrae, which are located in the neck region, have an uncovertebral joint. This joint is formed by the uncinate processes, which are small bony projections on the sides of the vertebrae. The uncovertebral joint helps to stabilize the cervical spine and allows for some movement and flexibility in the neck. The other options, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral vertebrae, do not have an uncovertebral joint.

The transverse ligament of the atlas is considered the "lifesaver" because it holds the atlas (the first cervical vertebra) in place and prevents it from compressing the spinal cord. This ligament is crucial for maintaining the stability and integrity of the cervical spine, as any injury or damage to it can potentially result in severe neurological complications or even death.

In a herniation of the L5/S1 disc, the spinal nerve that is likely to be compressed is the S1 nerve. The L5/S1 disc is located between the fifth lumbar vertebra (L5) and the first sacral vertebra (S1). When this disc herniates, it can put pressure on the S1 nerve, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, or weakness in the lower back, buttocks, and legs. Therefore, the compression of the S1 nerve is the most likely outcome in this scenario.

Spondyolysis refers to a stress fracture of the pars interarticularis, which is the region between the L5 laminae or articular processes. It is a common condition, particularly among athletes involved in activities that require repetitive hyperextension of the lumbar spine. Spondyolysis can cause lower back pain and may lead to instability in the affected area. Treatment typically involves rest, physical therapy, and sometimes bracing or surgery, depending on the severity of the fracture.

The sacral plexus is a network of nerves that is formed by the fusion of the lumbosacral roots. It is located in the posterior sacral foramina, which are small openings in the sacrum bone. Therefore, the correct answer is "Sacral Plexus" as it is the neural structure that passes through the posterior sacral foramina.

The correct answer is the posterior annulus fibrosus. The intervertebral discs (IVDs) are structures located between the vertebrae in the spine. They consist of an outer ring called the annulus fibrosus and an inner gel-like substance called the nucleus pulposus. The annulus fibrosus is made up of fibrocartilage and provides structural support to the disc. It is thicker in the posterior region, which helps to protect the nucleus pulposus and prevent herniation of the disc. Therefore, the thinnest part of the IVDs is the posterior annulus fibrosus.

Cervical vertebrae 1, 2, and 7 are considered atypical because they have unique characteristics compared to the other cervical vertebrae. The first cervical vertebra, also known as the atlas, lacks a body and instead consists of a ring-like structure that supports the skull. The second cervical vertebra, also known as the axis, has a bony projection called the dens or odontoid process, which allows for rotation of the head. The seventh cervical vertebra, also known as the vertebra prominens, has a long and prominent spinous process that can be easily felt at the base of the neck.

The sacral hiatus is formed by the absence of laminae and spinous process of S4 and S5. This means that the bony structures of the sacrum at the levels of S4 and S5 do not fully develop, creating an opening or gap known as the sacral hiatus. This opening allows for the passage of nerves and blood vessels in the sacral region.