CERVICAL RIB Meaning and
Definition
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A cervical rib refers to an anatomical variation in which a small, extra rib is present in the cervical region of the spine, specifically attached to the seventh cervical vertebra (C7). This rib is not typically found in the general population and is considered a congenital anomaly.
The cervical rib is generally small and rudimentary, often bony or cartilaginous in nature, and extends from the transverse process of the C7 vertebra towards the first rib. It may vary in size and shape, sometimes resembling a regular rib, while in other cases it may be shorter or curved. Although it is termed a "rib," the cervical rib does not have a direct connection to the sternum or the rest of the ribcage.
The presence of a cervical rib can potentially cause medical issues and complications, as it may exert pressure on nearby nerves, blood vessels, or anatomical structures in the region. This can lead to a variety of symptoms and conditions, such as pain or numbness in the arms, restricted movement, thoracic outlet syndrome, or neurovascular compression. Such implications may require medical intervention, exercises, physical therapy, or in severe cases, surgical removal of the cervical rib.
In summary, a cervical rib refers to an extra rib found in the cervical spine, specifically attached to the seventh vertebra. While it is a relatively uncommon anatomical finding, it can have implications on nearby structures and potentially cause symptoms or complications that require medical attention.
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An occasional short rib, unattached anteriorly, in the neck above the first rib.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CERVICAL RIB
- xervical rib
- vervical rib
- fervical rib
- dervical rib
- cwrvical rib
- csrvical rib
- cdrvical rib
- crrvical rib
- c4rvical rib
- c3rvical rib
- ceevical rib
- cedvical rib
- cefvical rib
- cetvical rib
- ce5vical rib
- ce4vical rib
- cercical rib
- cerbical rib
- cergical rib
- cerfical rib
Etymology of CERVICAL RIB
The etymology of the word "cervical rib" can be broken down as follows:
1. Cervical: The term "cervical" comes from the Latin word "cervix", which means "neck". In medical terminology, "cervical" refers to the neck region of the body, specifically the bones and structures related to the neck.
2. Rib: The term "rib" originated from the Old English word "ribb", which has Germanic and Old Norse roots. It refers to the curved bones that form the ribcage in humans and other vertebrates.
Therefore, "cervical rib" refers to an additional rib-like bone or bony structure that occurs in the neck region of some individuals.
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