Anatomy and clinical significance of the uncinate process and uncovertebral joint: A comprehensive review

Introduction: The uncinate process and its associated uncovertebral articulation are features unique to the cervical spine. This review examines the morphology of these unique structures with particular emphasis on the regional anatomy, development and clinical significance.

Materials and methods: Five electronic databases were utilized in the literature search and additional relevant citations were retrieved from the references. A total of 74 citations were included for review.

Results: This literature review found that the uncinate processes and uncovertebral articulations are rudimentary at birth and develop and evolve with age. With degeneration they become clinically apparent with compression of related structures; most importantly affecting the spinal nerve root and vertebral artery. The articulations have also been found to precipitate torticollis when edematous and be acutely damaged in severe head and neck injuries. The uncinate processes are also important in providing stability and guiding the motion of the cervical spine.

Conclusion: This review is intended to re-examine an often overlooked region of the cervical spine as not only an interesting anatomical feature but also a clinically relevant one.