Vertebral arch

Vertebral Arch

The vertebral arch is a key anatomical feature of the vertebrae, the series of small bones that make up the vertebral column or backbone. It is formed by two pedicles and two laminae. The vertebral arch, along with the vertebral body, encloses the vertebral foramen or canal, which contains the spinal cord.

Structure

The vertebral arch is composed of two main parts: the pedicles and the laminae.

Pedicles

The pedicles are two short, stout processes that extend from the sides of the vertebral body and connect it to the laminae. They form the sides of the vertebral arch and the lateral boundaries of the vertebral foramen.

Laminae

The laminae are two broad, flat plates of bone that extend from the pedicles and meet in the middle to complete the vertebral arch. They form the posterior (back) part of the vertebral arch and the posterior boundary of the vertebral foramen.

Function

The main function of the vertebral arch is to protect the spinal cord, which runs through the vertebral foramen. It also provides attachment points for muscles and ligaments that move and stabilize the vertebral column.

Clinical significance

Conditions that affect the vertebral arch can have serious consequences, as they can impact the protection of the spinal cord. These conditions include spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the vertebral foramen, and spondylolisthesis, a slipping of one vertebra relative to another.

See also

• Vertebral column
• Vertebral body
• Spinal cord

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