Fifth Cervical Vertebra, Lateral View

Description

Seen in lateral profile, the fifth cervical vertebra (C5) is presented with its vertebral body anterior and the vertebral arch, pedicles, and laminae sweeping posteriorly to the spinous process. Superior and inferior articular processes with their zygapophyseal facets bracket the pars interarticularis, while the transverse process projects laterally and contains the transverse foramen formed by the anterior and posterior tubercles (costal element and true transverse element). The vertebral foramen lies centrally, posterior to the body, and the uncinate process along the superolateral margin of the body can be appreciated in side view as it approaches the C4 to C5 and C5 to C6 intervertebral disc spaces. Small but specific landmarks. This perspective matters because C5 sits at a frequent site of degenerative change where uncovertebral osteophytes and facet arthrosis narrow the intervertebral foramen and can produce C5 radiculopathy, often with deltoid and biceps weakness. Lateral understanding of the transverse process and its costal element also anchors safe planning for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), where the longus colli is elevated laterally and the vertebral artery, coursing within the transverse foramen, must be respected. The relationship between vertebral body height, disc space, and posterior elements is the setup for both whiplash mechanics and spondylotic alignment. Use this artwork in gross anatomy and spine modules when teaching typical cervical vertebra features (transverse foramen, uncinate processes) and how they differ from thoracic vertebrae with costal facets for rib articulation. It also fits well in clinical skills texts illustrating ACDF approach corridors, foraminal stenosis, and the bony boundaries relevant to lateral cervical radiographs and CT reconstructions. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.