Vertebral artery
One of two key arteries located in the back of the neck that carry blood from the heart to the brain, spine, and neck muscles.
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- Vertebral column
small, rudimentary vertebrae that fuse together. Also known as the spinal column.
- Vertebral compression fracture
A fracture that collapses a spinal vertebra as a result of the compression of bone, leading to collapse of the vertebrae much like a sponge collapses under the pressure of one’s hand. Although they may occur without pain, such vertebral fractures often cause a severe, band-like pain that radiates from the spine around both sides […]
- Vertebral rib
The lower five ribs do not directly connect to the sternum and are known as false ribs. The upper three false ribs connect to the costal cartilages of the ribs just above them. The last two false ribs, however, usually have no ventral attachment (no anchor at all in front) and are called vertebral, fluctuating, […]
- Vertebroplasty
A nonsurgical method for repairing osteoporosis back fractures, such as vertebral compression fractures. Vertebroplasty is performed by a radiologist, without surgery, and involves inserting a glue-like material into the center of the collapsed spinal vertebra to stabilize and strengthen the crushed bone. The material is inserted through anesthetized skin with a needle and syringe, entering […]
- Vertex
The top of the head. For example, in a vertex presentation at birth, the top of the baby’s head emerges first.