Interarticularis Of Axis's Vertebral Arch, Lateral View

Description

Axis (C2) vertebral arch anatomy is centered on the pars interarticularis, the bony isthmus linking the superior articular process above to the inferior articular process below on the posterolateral aspect of the vertebra. From this lateral perspective, the pars lies posterior to the vertebral body and anterior to the lamina, forming a narrow bridge between the facet-bearing articular pillars. Lateral to the arch, the transverse process projects outward and contains the foramen transversarium, seen as a near-circular canal within the process, while the pedicle and lamina define the posterior boundary of the vertebral canal. Key landmarks cluster tightly here. Trauma and fixation planning make this relationship matter. The classic Hangman’s fracture is a bilateral fracture through the pars interarticularis of C2, separating the anterior elements (body and dens complex) from the posterior elements (lamina and spinous process), and this lateral view helps you localize the fracture line relative to the articular facets and the transverse foramen where the vertebral artery ascends. Small distances. Surgeons placing C2 pars or pedicle screws also need a precise mental map of the pars corridor and its proximity to the foramen transversarium and facet joints to reduce risk of vertebral artery injury and facet violation. Use this illustration in cervical spine modules for gross anatomy and osteology, in radiology teaching files when correlating lateral anatomy to sagittal CT reformats, and in operative technique materials discussing C2 pars/pedicle screw trajectories and Hangman’s fracture patterns. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.