Cervical Vertebral Synostosis: An Osteological Study

Abstract

ABSTRCAT: INTRODUCTION: Congenital anomalies affecting the craniovertebral or cervical region are common. Among these congenital anomalies the important ones are the fused cervical vertebrae which can be due to either congenital or acquired causes. Fused cervical vertebrae can be asymptomatic or it can produce a myriad of clinical symptoms from mild to severe. Hence a knowledge of the prevalence of these variations are essential. METHOD: 147 dry adult human skulls with 280 adult, dried cervical vertebrae were observed in this study for evidence of fusion. The morphologic details of the fusion were also noted. RESULTS: The total prevalence of fusion of cervical vertebrae was 1.4% which included fusion between occiput and atlas, atlas and axis vertebra, axis and third cervical vertebra and fusion between the typical cervical vertebrae. CONCLUSION AND SUMMARY: Fused cervical vertebrae limit neck movements and cause signs of nerve or spinal cord compression. Evaluation of patients who need surgeries of the head and neck region should involve radiographic examination of the cervical region to prevent accidental intra-operative and post-operative complications.