Axis (anatomy)
Second cervical vertebra of the spine / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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This article is about a bone named the Axis. For an anatomical axis such as AP or ML, see Anatomical terminology § Axes.
In anatomy, the axis (from Latin axis, "axle") is the second cervical vertebra (C2) of the spine, immediately inferior to the atlas, upon which the head rests. The spinal cord passes through the axis.
Quick Facts Details, Identifiers ...
Axis | |
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Details | |
Identifiers | |
Latin | axis, vertebra cervicalis II |
MeSH | D001368 |
TA98 | A02.2.02.201 |
TA2 | 1050 |
FMA | 12520 |
Anatomical terms of bone |
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The defining feature of the axis is its strong bony protrusion known as the dens, which rises from the superior aspect of the bone.