Axis (C2)

Second cervical vertebra

TrunkSkeletal system

High-yield

The dens is the pivot for the 'no' movement; a hangman's fracture involves its pars interarticularis.

Overview

The second cervical vertebra whose dens (odontoid process) forms a pivot for the atlas, allowing the 'no' rotation of the head.

Reference facts

Bone type
Irregular (vertebra)
Key landmarks
Dens (odontoid process); Bifid spinous process; Superior articular facets
Articulations
Atlas (atlanto-axial joint); C3 vertebra

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Educational reference. This page summarizes standard anatomy study concepts. It is not medical advice and must not be used for diagnosis, treatment, surgical planning, or any clinical decision-making.

Your notes

Region

Trunk — Back, thorax, and abdominal wall — the core, respiratory muscles, and vertebral column.

All trunk structures

Study this

Reinforce the Axis (C2) with flashcards and quiz practice.

Flashcards Quiz

Atlas (C1)

First cervical vertebra

Bone

Typical cervical vertebra

C3–C6

Bone

Typical thoracic vertebra

T2–T9

Bone

Typical lumbar vertebra

L1–L5

Bone

Sacrum

Five fused vertebrae

Bone

Typical rib

Curved flat bone of the thorax

AnatomyDeck

210 structures · 680 flashcards · quizzes. A study reference for human gross anatomy.

AnatomyDeck is an educational study reference for human anatomy coursework. It is not medical advice and is not a tool for diagnosis, treatment, surgical planning, or any clinical decision-making. Always defer to your instructors, dissection materials, current references, and licensed professionals.