• Cervical Vertebrae are most variable among other groups of vertebra. They are modified for support and movement of head.
• Atlas vertebra is an oval ring shaped vertebra and doesn’t have a body. It has lateral masses with transverse processes each process having a foramen.
• Axis Vertebra is also different in shape from others and has an Odontoid Process or Dens. It is a tooth-like projection in centre superiorly acting as pivot for atlas vertebra. It bulkiest vertebra among cervical vertebra.
• 7th vertebra is also called Vertebra Prominens. It has a large spinous process posteriorly. It may have abnormal Cervical Ribs.
• Cervical Vertebrae other than atlas, axis and 7th vertebra are somewhat similar in shape. They have a dense body in centre anteriorly and a spine posteriorly. Transverse processes are directed laterally and divided into anterior and posterior parts by foramen on both sides (Foramen Transversarium). Vertebral vessels pass through this foramen in upper six vertebra.

ARTICULATIONS

• Atlas lies just below the skull and articulates with it by its Superior Articular Facets. This joint allows little movement.
• Axis is placed under atlas and its Dens acts as pivot for Atlas. Hence this joint is moveable and allows rotation and other movements of head.
• Rest of the vertebrae are joined to adjacent superior and inferior vertebrae through their superior and inferior Articular Facets respectively.
• Bodies of the vertebrae are joined to each other by the help of cartilaginous discs between them.