A cone beam computed tomographic analysis of cervical vertebral nonsegmentation

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Anatomy

Background:

• Cervical vertebral nonsegmentation (CVN) is a congenital anomaly where vertebrae fail to properly divide.
• While often asymptomatic, CVN can predispose individuals to degenerative joint disease and other complications later in life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the radiologic features of cervical vertebral nonsegmentation (CVN) using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).
• To determine the prevalence, types, locations, and associated degenerative changes of CVN in patients without known syndromes.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 13,458 CBCT scans.
• Identification and classification of CVN based on type (partial/complete), laterality, vertebral level, and involved anatomic parts.
• Assessment for the presence and distinguishability of degenerative joint disease (DJD).

Main Results:

• CVN was identified in 0.82% of scans (110 cases).
• Partial nonsegmentation (77.3%) was more common than complete (22.7%).
• Most CVN occurred at C2-C3, frequently involving the transverse process and body. DJD was noted in 45.9% of partial and 20% of complete CVN.

Conclusions:

• Cervical vertebral nonsegmentation is a low-prevalence condition, typically partial and affecting C2-C3.
• The transverse process and body are commonly involved in CVN.
• Recognizing CVN on CBCT is vital due to its association with future DJD and potential for neurologic complications.