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Cervical pedicles: correcting a common misconception
1Lake Imaging, Ballarat Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia. agpitman@unimelb.edu.au
Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Oncology
|June 24, 2011
Summary
Radiologists should correct the common misconception that a rounded contour on oblique cervical spine X-rays is the transverse process; it is actually the pedicle. This finding clarifies cervical spine anatomy for radiology trainees.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Anatomy
Background:
- A common misconception exists regarding the radiographic appearance of the cervical spine in oblique projections.
- This error pertains to the interpretation of the pedicle and transverse process.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the plain radiographic appearance of the cervical spine pedicle and transverse process in oblique projections.
- To correct a prevalent erroneous interpretation among Australian radiologists and trainees.
Main Methods:
- A human C5 vertebra was radiographed in the oblique projection.
- Key anatomical structures and their relationships were identified and demonstrated.
Main Results:
- The rounded cortical contour overlying the vertebral body is the end-on ipsilateral pedicle, not the transverse process.
- The ipsilateral transverse process appears as a faint, elongated structure due to its right-angle relationship with the pedicle.
- Both the end-on pedicle and the ipsilateral transverse process were unequivocally demonstrated.
Conclusions:
- The common misconception regarding cervical spine oblique projections should be corrected.
- Radiologists must ensure accurate interpretation and avoid perpetuating this error to trainees.
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