Cervical vertebra C7 (vertebra prominens)

Function

The transition vertebra between neck and thorax. Its long spinous process — the 'vertebra prominens' — is the most obvious midline bony landmark of the lower neck and anchors the ligamentum nuchae.

Landmarks

• Long non-bifid spinous process (vertebra prominens)
• Transverse processes
• Costal facets

Articulations (joints)

• C6 above
• T1 below
• First rib (via costal facet when present)

Clinical relevance

Cervical ribs or enlarged C7 transverse processes compress the brachial plexus lower trunk, causing thoracic outlet syndrome with ulnar-side numbness.