Transverse Process of First Lumbar Vertebra (Right)

Description

The transverse processes are the two laterally projecting processes located at the lateral parts of the vertebral arch of a lumbar vertebra. They extend from the junction between the pedicles and laminae.

Overall, the transverse processes of lumbar vertebrae are generally long, thin, blunt and consist of accessory processes. They provide origin sites for the psoas major muscles, insertion sites for the quadratus lumborum muscles, and attachment sites for the intrinsic muscles of the back, thoracolumbar fascia and intertransverse ligaments.

In addition, the transverse processes of the first lumbar vertebra provide attachments sites for the arcuate ligaments of the respiratory diaphragm.