Uncinate process of the cervical spine

The uncinate process of the cervical spine is a hook-shaped process found bilaterally on the superolateral margin of the cervical vertebral bodies of C3-C7.

The uncinate processes are more anteriorly positioned in the upper cervical spine and more posteriorly location in the lower cervical spine.

Articulations

• uncovertebral or Luschka joint: joint between the uncinate process and the inferolateral portion of the vertebral body above (anvil or echancrure).

Functions

• limit lateral flexion maintaining the integrity of the ipsilateral intervertebral foramen

• maintain the position of the intervertebral discs during axial rotation

Variant anatomy

Uncinate processes are variably absent on C7 and have been found extending to T1 and T2 on occasion