These processes extend laterally from the vertebral foramen.
- Transverse foramen (holes in the transverse processes through which travels the vertebral artery) - Uncinate processes (lip on the supero-lateral aspects of vertebral bodies)
Spinous
The articulations of the human skull and vertebral column consist of a series of amphiarthrodial joints between the vertebral bodies, and a series of diathrodial joints between the vertebral arches. The articulations of the rat skull and vertebral column consist of cervical vertebrae which have small, transverse processes containing a hole through which nerves and blood vessels pass.
The transverse processes of the cervical vertebrae are pierced by a "foramen transversarium" through which the vertebral artery passes. The transverse processes of the cervical vertebrae are pierced by a "foramen transversarium" through which the vertebral artery passes.
The rhomboid major originates on the spinous processes of the second to fifth thoracic border and inserts on the medial border of the scapula. It retracts the scapula.
Cervical Vertebra - Typical
The vertebral body, which is situated anteriorly, houses the vertebral disc.
The two lateral processes in the vertebrae are called the transverse processes. These bony projections extend laterally from the vertebral arch and serve as attachment points for muscles and ligaments, as well as articulation points for the ribs in the thoracic region.
Cervical vertebra - typical The cervical vertebrae contain foramina in the transverse processes, called foramina transversarium.
A median posterior projection that arises at the junction of two laminae of the vertebral body is known as the spinous process. It provides attachment for muscles and ligaments of the spine, contributing to stability and movement of the vertebral column. The spinous processes can be palpated along the midline of the back and serve as important landmarks for identifying vertebral levels.
Transverse foramina are small openings within the transverse processes of the cervical vertebrae. These foramina allow the passage of the vertebral artery and vertebral veins, which supply blood to the spinal cord and brain.