Spinous process

Spinous process is a bony projection off the posterior (back) of each vertebra. They are seen where the laminae of the vertebral arch join and provide the point of attachment for muscles and ligaments of the spine. The spinous processes are the ridges that can be felt through the skin along the back of the spine.

Anatomy

The spinous process comes out the back of the spine and has a more or less triangular or hatchet-like shape. Its function is to attach muscles and ligaments. The spinous processes of the vertebrae of the thoracic region are particularly robust for the attachment of the muscles that move the vertebral column.

Clinical significance

In certain pathological conditions, such as ankylosing spondylitis, the spinous processes may become fused, resulting in a characteristic 'bamboo spine' appearance on radiographs.

See also

• Vertebra
• Lamina (spine)
• Ankylosing spondylitis

References

Spinous process Resources
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