🥇 COLUMNA VERTEBRAL 2/5 - Partes de las Vértebras Típicas. Fácil y Sencillo

Introduction and Overview

In this section, Juan José Sánchez introduces the topic of the vertebral column, providing a brief recap of the previous video and outlining the focus for this session.

Components of the Vertebral Column

• The vertebral column consists of 24 pre-sacral vertebrae, including 7 cervical vertebrae, 12 thoracic vertebrae (which articulate with ribs), and 5 lumbar vertebrae.

• Each vertebra comprises two main parts: the anterior body that bears weight and the posterior arch.

• The body of a vertebra supports most of the body's weight and is separated from adjacent vertebrae by intervertebral discs.

• The arch of a vertebra consists of pedicles (anterior) and laminae (posterior), forming a complete structure known as the vertebral arch.

Structure of a Typical Vertebra

This part delves into the general structure shared by all pre-sacral vertebrae, focusing on a typical thoracic vertebra as an example.

Anatomy of a Typical Vertebra

• A typical vertebra comprises an anterior body responsible for weight-bearing and a posterior arch resembling an arrow's shape.

• The intervertebral disc separates adjacent vertebral bodies, aiding in flexibility and shock absorption.

• The vertebral arch includes pedicles (anterior) that connect to the vertebral body and laminae (posterior) completing the circular structure.

• Notable features include superior and inferior notches on pedicles facilitating articulation between adjacent vertebrae.

Functionality of Vertebrae

Exploring how vertebral structures support bodily functions such as weight-bearing and protection while maintaining flexibility.

Functional Aspects

• Vertebral structures bear longitudinal weight through their bodies, crucial for supporting organs like lungs and heart located anteriorly to the spine.

• Lever-like processes called apophyses aid in muscle attachment, stabilizing the spine against forward movement akin to a fishing rod mechanism.

Understanding Vertebral Structures

In this section, the speaker explains the different types of vertebral processes and their functions in detail.

Apófisis Transversas and Apófisis Espinosas

• The apófisis transversas emerge at the junction between the pedicle and lamina, serving as non-articular processes.

• Apófisis espinosas form through the union of lamina with lamina, along with apófisis transversas, they are non-articular processes acting as levers for muscle insertion.

Articular Processes

• Apart from non-articular processes like apófisis transversas and espinosas, there are articular processes that facilitate vertebral articulation.

• There are two superior articular processes and two inferior ones originating from the pedicle, enabling intervertebral articulation.

Vertebral Foramen and Spinal Canal

This part delves into the significance of the vertebral foramen and spinal canal in protecting vital structures like the spinal cord.

Vertebral Foramen Structure

• The vertebral foramen is crucial, formed by a single vertebra's components including its posterior part, both pedicles, and both laminae.

Spinal Canal Functionality

• Stacking vertebrae aligns their foramina to create a spinal canal or conducto raquídeo safeguarding the spinal cord.

• The spinal canal serves as a conduit for nerves protecting the essential structure of the central nervous system - the spinal cord.

Intervertebral Foramina Importance

Exploring how intervertebral foramina play a critical role in nerve transmission within the peripheral nervous system.

Intervertebral Foramina Significance

• Intervertebral foramina act as exit points primarily for spinal nerves facilitating nerve conduction throughout various body regions.

Detailed Explanation of Spinal Anatomy

In this segment, the speaker provides a detailed explanation of spinal anatomy, focusing on the vertebrae and nerves associated with the thoracic region.

Exploring Spinal Anatomy

• The apófisis transversa is highlighted, showing the vertebral notch and a nerve emerging from the thoracic cavity. This nerve could be T2 or T3, passing through the intervertebral or junctional foramen.