C4 Vertebra

Description

Positioned in a lateral cervical spine series from C3 through C7, the C4 vertebra sits superior to C5 and inferior to C3, with its vertebral body lying anterior to the vertebral arch and bifid spinous process. Laterally, the transverse processes project from the junction of pedicle and lamina, and the transverse foramina align to form a vertical channel for the vertebral artery as it ascends the neck. Posterior elements, including the laminae and articular processes, define the zygapophysial joints that guide flexion, extension, and coupled rotation. C5 and C6 appear color-highlighted in blue within the sequence for contrast, helping orient the viewer to mid-cervical segmental anatomy. For surgical planning and teaching, the mid-cervical level matters because C4 and its neighboring segments define common levels for anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) and for evaluation of radiculopathy patterns. The lateral perspective clarifies how a reduced disc height at C4 to C5 or C5 to C6 can narrow the intervertebral foramen and correlate with nerve root irritation, while posterior facet alignment helps explain pain referral from cervical spondylosis. Small processes, big consequences. Use this asset in gross anatomy and neuroanatomy coursework to teach cervical vertebra identification (typical vertebrae, transverse foramina, bifid spinous processes), in orthopaedic and neurosurgical education to support cervical level localization, and in medical publishing for chapters on cervical trauma, degenerative disc disease, and operative approaches to the anterior neck. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.