CERVICAL SPINE: ANATOMICAL VARIATIONS - LITERATURE REVIEW
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56238/levv17n59-038Keywords:
Cervical Spine, Anatomical VariationAbstract
The cervical spine presents remarkable structural complexity and clinical relevance due to its relationship with neurovascular bundles and refined head mobility. This literature review aimed to map the main anatomical variations described for the cervical spine in the literature, with emphasis on those with the greatest practical impact. The methodology consisted of an exploratory survey of classic and contemporary publications in electronic databases such as SCieLO, PubMed, LILACS, MEDLINE, and Embase, and in situ analysis of anatomical specimens, following steps of topic definition, material selection, and interpretation of findings. The results showed significant variations in all cervical vertebrae, including fusion anomalies and arch defects in the atlas, morphological variations of the odontoid process and articular facets in the axis, the presence of accessory transverse foramina and variations of the uncinate process in typical vertebrae (CIII-CVI), as well as cervical ribs associated with vertebra CVII. The discussion points out that such variations, although often asymptomatic, can compromise local biomechanics, interfere with the interpretation of imaging exams, and present challenges in surgical procedures. It concludes that detailed knowledge of these variations is fundamental for clinical practice in orthopedics, neurosurgery, and radiology, allowing for safer and more individualized diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
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