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Glite Dictionary
zygapophyseal

zygapophyseal

9.9
Connected with the small joints between the bones of the spine
  • adjective
  • /ˌzaɪgəˈpɑfɪˌsiəl/
  • Specialized
: zigapofisario
  • The zygapophyseal joints allow for flexibility and movement in the spine.

Examples

  • The zygapophyseal or facet joint is not demonstrated in the AP projection of the lumbar spine, but is seen in the oblique position. The articulation of the superior and inferior articular processes forms the zygapophyseal joint.

    Academic text (2006)

  • Each vertebra has zygapophyseal facets that connect it to adjacent vertebrae.

  • In spinal surgery, doctors often examine the zygapophyseal regions for signs of injury.

Surface Forms

zygapophyseal positive

Etymology

Zygapophyseal comes from Greek parts zyga- meaning 'yoke' and apophysis meaning 'a bony growth'. So it describes the small bony parts on the spine that 'yoke' or join the spine bones together, and thus the joints where those parts meet.