The investigation of the lamina on superior articular process in the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae and its clinical significance

Objective:To investigate the lamina on superior articular process in the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae and provide anatomic data for the clinic.Methods:The lamina on superior articular process in the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae were measured,using caliper,in 35 sets of dry adult spines,2 sets of dry child spines and 5 sets of fetal spines.Results:No lamina on superior articular process were found on fetal and child spines,as well the cervical,T1 and L5 vertebrae of adult spines.However,the lamina were found on other thoracic and lumbar vertebrae in adult spines.From T1 to T12 vertebrae,the occurrence rate of the lamina on superior articular process increased,whereas,the occurrence rate decreased from L1 to L5.Conclusions:The lamina on superior articular process is a bony structure of adult thoracic and lumbar vertebrae.It may compress the nerve roots,and it is necessary to name it.