NETTER - Neuroscience Flash Cards

Bony Framework of the Head
and Neck
1. Atlas (C1)
2. Axis (C2)
3. C3 vertebra
4. C7 vertebra
5. Mandible
6. Zygomatic arch
7. Sphenoid bone
8. Temporal bone
Comment: The cervical vertebrae are well articulated with each
other and provide a strong bony framework for protecting the spinal
cord as it emerges from the brain stem. But the sites of articulation
and the vertebrae themselves are sites of potential vulnerability to
trauma and can be fractured or dislocated, causing spinal cord
injury. Cervical discs may herniate, resulting in protrusion of the
nucleus pulposus and possible impingement on sensory roots
(radiating pain) or motor roots (motor weakness) that emerge through
the intervertebral foramina.
Overview of the Nervous System See book 2.3