Vertebral Anatomy Overview

Overview

This lecture reviews the main anatomical parts of a typical vertebra, describing their locations and functions.

Major Parts of a Typical Vertebra

• The large central hole is called the vertebral foramen, which allows the spinal cord to pass through.
• The thick, weight-bearing part is the vertebral body.
• Transverse processes extend out to the sides of the vertebra.
• The spinous process projects toward the back (posterior) of the vertebra.
• The pedicle connects the transverse process to the vertebral body.
• The lamina is the area between the transverse process and the spinous process.

Articular Processes and Connections

• Superior articular processes are upward projections that connect to the vertebra above.
• Inferior articular processes are downward projections that connect to the vertebra below.
• These processes form joints between adjacent vertebrae.

Spaces Between Vertebrae

• The intervertebral foramen is the space between adjacent vertebrae, allowing nerves to pass through.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Vertebral foramen — the central hole in a vertebra for the spinal cord.
• Vertebral body — the thick, main part of a vertebra that supports weight.
• Transverse process — lateral projections from the vertebra.
• Spinous process — posterior projection from the vertebra.
• Pedicle — connects the body to the transverse process.
• Lamina — area between the transverse and spinous processes.
• Superior articular process — upward joints connecting to the vertebra above.
• Inferior articular process — downward joints connecting to the vertebra below.
• Intervertebral foramen — hole between vertebrae for nerve passage.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Review diagrams of a vertebra and label all key parts.
• Prepare to identify and describe vertebral features on exam models.