Cervical Vertebral Body

corpus vertebrae cervicalis

The cervical vertebral bodies are the smallest in the mobile spine, distinguished by the uncinate processes (Luschka joints) projecting superolaterally and the foramina transversaria housing the vertebral arteries. Their smaller size relative to the spinal cord (which is proportionally largest in the cervical region) means that even moderate cervical spondylosis can produce significant cord compression, cervical myelopathy, from relatively small canal compromise.

Anatomical Data

Structure & Landmarks

Articulations	Intervertebral discs Uncovertebral joints (joints of Luschka) Posterior arch via pedicles and facet joints
Landmarks	Uncinate processes Anterior tubercle and posterior tubercle of transverse processes Foramina transversaria
Ossification	Three primary centres fusing by age 6 with ring apophyses at the endplates fusing by age 25.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Cervical spondylosis with vertebral body osteophytes and disc height loss is the most common cause of cervical myelopathy and cervical radiculopathy in adults over 50. Osteophytes at the uncovertebral joints and posterior vertebral body margins encroach on the intervertebral foramina and spinal canal respectively. ACDF removes the disc and bony osteophytes from the anterior approach; posterior decompression via laminectomy or laminoplasty decompresses the canal from behind.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Cervical Teardrop Fracture

A flexion teardrop fracture of the anteroinferior body indicates a highly unstable injury with frequent cord damage.

Cervical Burst Fracture

Axial load through the head fractures the body with possible retropulsion into the canal.

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