An osteological study of fusion of cervical vertebrae

Abstract

Introduction: Fusion of vertebral column is a common finding in both radiological studies and in anatomical studies. The present study was focussed only on the fusion of the cervical vertebrae. The present study is to study the morphology of fused cervical vertebrae and its clinical aspect. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted on 200 dry cervical vertebrae of both the sexes in Department of Anatomy, Subharti Medical College, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. The bones were carefully studied and digitally photographed. Results: In this study the incidence of fused cervical vertebrae was 0.5% (01 out of 200). Out of seven cervical vertebrae the fusion was only seen in C2-C3 Vertebrae. Conclusions: The overall incidence of the fused cervical vertebrae in this study was only 0.5%. The fusion of cervical vertebrae is commonly associated with Klippel-Feil Syndrome, Crouzon’s syndrome and Chorda Dorsalis. The fusion of the cervical vertebrae causes restricted and painful neck movements and can cause sudden death also. The knowledge of such fusion is important for anatomists, neurosurgeons, radiologists, orthopaedic surgeons, neurologists, physiotherapists and even orthodontists. The knowledge of the fusion of cervical vertebrae is important for anaesthetist while doing endotracheal intubation where extension of the neck is done. Keywords: Cervical vertebrae