Cervical vertebra, second: The second cervical vertebra is called the axis. It is so-named because the uppermost cervical vertebra (called the atlas) rotates about the odontoid process of the second cervical vertebra. The joint between the axis and atlas is a pivot type of joint. It allows the head turn.
The Latin word "axis" means axle or pole. The axis bone serves as the axle about which the atlas (and the head) turn.
Cervical vertebra, second: The second cervical vertebra is called the axis. It is so-named because the uppermost cervical vertebra (called the atlas) rotates about the ...
Second cervical vertebra is also knows as axis. It is identified by the presence of the dens (see below).It has following features. Body. The superior surface of the body ...
The first, second and seventh cervical vertebrae present special distinguishing features, but the remaining four conform to a common type and are termed the typical ...
The cervical vertebral column is the one most capable of movement. The first cervical vertebrae (atlas) and the second cervical vertebrae (axis) deviate ...
The axis is the second cervical vertebra. Its most distinctive feature is a blunt tooth-like process, called the dens (Latin for "tooth") or odontoid process ...