Description
The vertebral body is the small, anteriorly located cylindrical part of the axis (second cervical vertebra). Its anterior aspect has a triangular prominence, while its posterior aspect forms the anterior wall of the vertebral foramen. The dens axis extends from its superomedial aspect, the right and left superior articular processes extend from its superolateral aspects, and the pedicles extend from its posterolateral aspects. It consists of an inferior intervertebral surface, an inferior annular epiphysis and vascular foramina.
The vertebral body of the axis provides an insertion site for the vertical part of longus cervicis muscle, as well as attachment sites for the anterior and posterior longitudinal ligaments.
Overall, the sizes of the vertebral bodies gradually increase caudally along the vertebral column. Adjacent vertebral bodies articulate with each other via intervertebral discs, forming the intervertebral symphysis joints.
In terms of function, each vertebral body provides structural support to the body weight that lies superior to it.
