Odontoid
Odontoid
The Odontoid (pronunciation: /oʊˈdɒntɔɪd/), also known as the dens, is a protrusion (or peg) found in the second cervical vertebra, also known as the axis. It is named for its tooth-like shape, with the term "odontoid" deriving from the Greek words "odous" (tooth) and "eidos" (form or shape).
Anatomy
The odontoid process is a strong, tooth-like projection that extends upward from the body of the axis. It is a critical component of the joint connecting the first and second cervical vertebrae, allowing for rotation of the head. The odontoid is held in place by the transverse ligament of atlas, which wraps around the dens and attaches to the atlas, the first cervical vertebra.
Clinical Significance
Due to its location and function, the odontoid process is susceptible to injury, particularly in cases of trauma. Fractures of the odontoid process, known as odontoid fractures, can lead to instability and potential damage to the spinal cord. Diagnosis is typically made through imaging studies such as X-ray or CT scan. Treatment may involve immobilization, surgery, or a combination of both, depending on the type and severity of the fracture.
Related Terms
- Axis: The second cervical vertebra, which contains the odontoid process.
- Atlas: The first cervical vertebra, which articulates with the odontoid process of the axis.
- Odontoid Fracture: A break in the odontoid process, which can lead to instability and potential damage to the spinal cord.
- Transverse ligament of atlas: The ligament that holds the odontoid process in place.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Odontoid
- Wikipedia's article - Odontoid
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski