Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences & Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida
Online published on 27 March, 2014.
The cervical vertebrae are recognized by presence of foramen transversarium. The foramen transversarium transmits vertebral artery, vertebral vein and sympathetic fibres except FT of C7. The variation in foramen transversarium may be associated with alteration in caliber and course of vertebral artery. The aim of present study was to observe variation in FT and to recognize associated cause of vertebrobasilar insufficiency and also to take precautions to safeguard vertebral artery in transpedicular screw fixation
Foramen transvrsarium of 217 cervical vertebrae of 31 set of spine were observed for duplication, symmetry, irregularity and osteophytic encroachments.
Out of 217 cervical vertebrae duplication of foramen transversarium were in 36 (16.58%), irregular in 3(1.38%), asymmetrical in 12(5.38%) and osteophytic encroachments in 9(4.15%) vertebrae.
The variations in FT and vertebral artery are interrelated. So this is important to ascertain the etiology of vertbrobasilar insufficiency other than the atherosclerosis and for taking precautionary measure to safeguard vertebral artery in transpedicular screw fixation of cervical spine.
Foramen Transversarium, Transverse Foramen, Vertebral Artery, Vertebrobasilar Insufficiancy
