Fusion of the Sixth and Seventh Cervical Vertebra: A Case Report
Nkechi Clara Nwosu *
Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Gregory University Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria.
Valentine Chidozie Amasiatu
Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Gregory University Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria.
Utoon Ekeneokot Ekeneokot
Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Gregory University Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria.
Ibinabo Fubara Bob-Manuel
Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Gregory University Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria and Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aim: To report a rare fusion of the 6th and 7th cervical vertebra in a cadaver specimen.
Presentation of Case: A fused C6-C7 vertebra was discovered during maceration in the Anatomy laboratory in a South-Eastern Nigerian University. The laminas were completely fused while their bodies, transverse processes and spinous processes were fused partially.
Discussion: Block vertebra is the fusion of one or more adjoining vertebrae in which they act as one, both structurally and functionally. These fusions, although present in other regions, is more common in the cervical region. Among the reported cases, there is a higher incidence of fusion between C2-C3 with only few reported cases of fusion between C6-C7. Fused cervical vertebra impact biochemical and mechanical stress on the adjoining vertebra which results in various neurological and physical problems, hence the report could create an insight that could aid researchers and medical diagnoses.
Conclusion: This unusual fusion of C6-C7 vertebra reported provides basis of anatomical variations in which proper documentation of incidence and knowledge will be beneficial to anatomists, orthopaedic surgeons, radiologists and other medical personnel.
Keywords: Block vertebra, fusion, cervical vertebra, anatomical variations