Neck Bones (Humans)
Neck bones in humans are composed of cervical vertebrae. The neck portion is divided into 3 compartments.
- The vertebral or posterior compartment has seven cervical vertebrae and their associated muscles.
- The visceral or anterior compartment comprises glands like the thymus, parathyroid, thyroid, etc.
- The 2 lateral vascular compartments are present, one on each side and have major veins, arteries, lymph nodes and lymph vessels.
Neck Bones Structure
The cervical vertebra is the name of the vertebra in the neck, and it makes up the seven bones of the neck region. The third to sixth cervical vertebrae are typical, whereas the first, second and seventh cervical vertebrae are atypical. A typical vertebra has a vertebral body, vertebral foramen and vertebral arch.
- The C1 or first cervical vertebra is termed the atlas. It is a ring-shaped structure with no spine or body.
- The C2, the second cervical vertebra, is termed the axis. It has dens or strong tooth-like processes that project upwards from the vertebral body.
- The C1 and C2 together form the pivot joint and help in the head movements.
- The seventh cervical vertebra has long and thick spinous processes.
- The structure of cervical vertebrae from C3 to C6 has similar characteristics to most other vertebrae. They are typical vertebrae.
Hyoid Bone
The hyoid bone is a tiny, solitary, U-shaped bone that is situated just above the larynx and is oriented horizontally. It has a body and two sets of horns and is located at the front of the neck. None of the other skeletal components in the neck and head directly articulate with the hyoid bone. The hyoid bone serves as a strong and flexible bony anchor for several head and neck muscles and soft tissue structures.
Articulations
- It is superiorly connected to the oral cavity’s floor.
- It is inferiorly connected to the larynx.
- It is posteriorly connected to the pharynx.
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