Dynamic vertebra model of the cervical spine showing various consequences of degeneration

Anatomically, the model shows the entire cervical spine (C1-C7) and therefore the two most important joint types in the spinal column, which are the symphyses (disci/band discs) between the vertebral bodies and the facet joints, which are sliding joints between the vertebrae's pivots. Bodies are seen throughout the vertebral canal. flavum, and at C1-C2, bodies are seen. cruciform Atlantis.



Overall, the bone quality is extremely good, and therefore, for example, knots and depressions in the bone tissue are clearly visible.



Degenerative changes on the model include i.a. osteophytosis (edge ​​expansion), reduced curvature (lordosis/backward bending) and inflammation in some of the facet joints using educational red color in combination with reduced joint space.



Furthermore, the model has been developed with a hyperelastic disc between C5 and C6 as well as a tear centrally in the outer, fixed part of the disc between C6 and C7 (ie centrally in the annulus fibrosus), where a disc herniation can be demonstrated. Read more about these 2 conditions below.

In terms of movement, the model is in a special class, just like the other models in this unique series of dynamic spine models. The model's 2 types of joints (the disc and the facet joints) can be moved in different natural (and unnatural) ways.



The discs can be compressed and the cervical vertebrae can be moved naturally (see the video among the images on the left). Both by compression (compression) and dynamic extension of the cervical vertebrae, one can realistically demonstrate a herniated disc between C6 and C7, where red material bulges into the vertebral canal (centrally) from a tear in the outer, fixed part of the intervertebral disc (i.e. centrally in annulus fibrosus).



A hyperelastic disc is inserted between C5 and C6, which can be used to demonstrate the importance of this in the facet joints compared to the other natural discs on the model (see the video among the images on the left).



As the model consists of 7 cervical vertebrae, rotation in the cervical spine can also be demonstrated. Thereby, the "opening and closing" of the IVF (intervertebral foramen) can be demonstrated - for example in relation to learning about degenerative changes that can affect the neurovascular content of the opening.

Clinically, the model is developed for learning about degenerative changes that cause pain. The model is ideal for learning about disc herniation, spinal stenosis and osteoarthritis of the cervical vertebrae.



Based on the model's color markings of inflammation in facet joints and altered joint space, it is also ideal for learning about cascades of changes in the joints that cause altered mechanics and pain. As a special feature, the hyperelastic disc between C5 and C6 can be used to demonstrate the importance of this in the facet joints.



Since rotation can be clearly demonstrated, it is also ideal for learning about degenerative changes that can affect the neurovascular content of the intervertebral foramen.