The Foramina of the Cervical Vertebrae of the Ox Part II: Cervical Vertebrae 3–7

The position, size and connections of all the macroscopically visible foramina of Cervical vertebrae 3–7 in 20 oxen are described. The nomen-clature of various structures is discussed. A definite pattern evolves, indicating vascular pathways, regions where bloodvessels can be expected to enter or leave, the size of vessels involved and age differences. In regard to the latter there seems to be two opposing patterns: on the external surface foramina seem to increase in size and distribution with increasing age; on the internal surface (including that of the “transverse canal”) the opposite pattern prevails.