Journal of Human Anatomy (JHUA)
ISSN: 2578-5079
Research Article
Morphometric Study of the Vertebral Body and Pedicle of Typical
Cervical Vertebrae Using Radiological Image
Abstract
Introduction: Accurate knowledge of cervical vertebral body dimensions is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment of cervical spine disorders. The anteroposterior diameter is a critical measurement for anterior bicortical screw fixation. Vertebral osteophytes, commonly seen on the anterolateral margins of the lower cervical vertebrae, are age-related degenerative changes that may cause neurovascular compression. Large osteophytes can compress the vertebral artery as it crosses the uncinate process, potentially resulting in dysphagia, sleep apnea, or spinal nerve root compression.
Objectives: To assess the morphometric dimensions of the vertebral body and pedicle in typical cervical vertebrae and to
observe the presence of osteophytes.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on 100 dry human typical cervical vertebrae of unknown age and sex.
Morphometric parameters of the vertebral body and pedicle were measured using a digital vernier calliper in millimeters.
Measurements included anteroposterior and transverse dimensions.
Results: The average vertebral body length was 14.55 ± 2.14 mm; anterior height 9.99 ± 1.35 mm; posterior height 11.1 ±
1.4 mm; superior width 21.61 ± 2.81 mm; and inferior width 19.58 ± 3.2 mm. Pedicle length and height were statistically
significant, whereas pedicle width was not. Osteophytes were observed on the vertebral bodies.
Conclusion: Morphometric data are valuable for surgical planning in anterior cervical reconstruction and enhance the safety
of transpedicular screw insertion. These findings also have relevance in anthropological research.
Keywords: Typical Cervical Vertebrae; Vertebral Body; Pedicle; Vertebral Artery; Osteophytes
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