Cervical vertebra C3

Function

A typical cervical vertebra: a small body between uncinate processes, a wide triangular canal and transverse foramina conducting the vertebral artery skyward toward the brain.

Landmarks

• Body with uncinate processes
• Transverse foramen (vertebral artery)
• Bifid spinous process
• Intervertebral foramen for C3 nerve

Articulations (joints)

• C2 above
• C4 below
• Ribs (absent — cervical ribs are variant)

Clinical relevance

Cervical disc herniation at C3–4 presses the C4 root; cervical ribs at C7 more commonly compress the subclavian artery and brachial plexus (thoracic outlet syndrome).