A Morphometric Study On Anatomical Variations Of Transverse Foramina In Dried Typical Cervical Vertebrae C3-C6

Foramen Transversarium is a cardinal feature of cervical vertebrae. It transmits vertebral artery along with other contents. Variations in size and shape of foramen transversaria are associated with development or course of vertebral artery. Its compartmentalization can cause compression on the vascular structure causing vertebrobasilar insufficiency. Present study is to observe such variations of size and shape in typical cervical vertebrae to provide data to neurosurgeons and radiologists. Material & Methods: 170 intact typical cervical vertebrae of unknown sex and age were taken after approval of Ethical Review Board. They were observed for any accessory foramina, shape and size of foramen transversaria bilaterally and transverse and AP diameters of foramen transversarium were taken & recorded with digital vernier caliper. Statistical analysis was applied. Results: Foramen tranversaria of majority were rounded in shape with 8-10% with incomplete/notched appearance. AP diameters of two sides reported a statistically significant difference. About 10% have accessory foramina and 5 are bilateral. Conclusion: Vertebral artery injury is uncommon but may be a disastrous complication during cervical spinal surgery. Therefore, proper preoperative investigations and planning is essential for the surgeons.