Anatomy of the Human Vertebrae

As a surgeon at the Aurora Neuroscience Innovation Institute, Dr. Melissa Macias draws on advanced training in the treatment of degenerative spine disease. Dr. Melissa Macias leverages her knowledge of spine anatomy and pathology to select and perform procedures to correct such conditions.

The human spine contains approximately 33 individual vertebrae, all of which are structurally similar. Closest to the front of the torso is the vertebral body, a solid structure with a roughly oval circumference. It is responsible for providing stability and carrying the weight placed on the spine.

A hyaline cartilage lining protects the vertebral body at the top and bottom. Posterior to the vertebral body is the vertebral arch, a bony structure from which protrudes smaller bone segments known as processes. These serve as attachments for connective tissue and muscles.

The vertebral arch connects to the vertebral body by way of two bony columns known as pedicles, located relatively parallel to the sides of the torso. The pedicles allow the vertebral body and arch to surround a space known as the vertebral canal, through which passes the spinal cord. 

The vertebral canal also houses the nerve roots, which reach outward from the spine to begin the transmission of nerve signals throughout the body. Cerebrospinal fluid surrounds these crucial nerve structures and is contained within the meninges, which envelop the spinal cord and brain.