Typical vertebra (English)

The vertebrae of each region have common anatomical features which help in distinguishing them one from another. Nevertheless, all vertebrae share a number of common/general features.The large cylindrical part located anteriorly is the vertebral body; it is separated above and below from adjacent vertebral bodies by fibrocartilaginous structures known as intervertebral discs. The posterior part of the vertebra is the vertebral arch, which is formed by two pedicles (one on either side) and two laminae that complete the arch posteriorly. The body and arch of each vertebra enclose a space called the vertebral foramen. Several projections, or processes, extend from the arch. Each vertebra has a spinous process extending posteriorly on the midline, two transverse processes extending laterally, as well as two superior and two inferior articular processes. Each articular process bears an articular facet for articulation with a contiguous vertebra.