THORAX ABDOMEN AND PELVIS

Detailed explanation-1: -The Axis (C2 vertebra) also known as epistropheus forms the pivot upon which the first cervical vertebra (the Atlas ), which carries the head, rotates. The axis is composed of a vertebral body, heavy pedicles, laminae, and transverse processes, which serve as attachment points for muscles.

Detailed explanation-2: -Location and structure The axis is the second vertebra of the vertebral column, located in the superior portion of the cervical region of the spine. It articulates superiorly with the atlas, and inferiorly with the third cervical vertebra.

Detailed explanation-3: -C1 is the topmost vertebra that holds the skull while the C2 is the second topmost vertebra that provides an axis to rotate skull and C1 when the head moves side to side. Therefore, this is the key difference between C1 and C2. Atlas vertebra is a synonym of C1 while the axis vertebra is a synonym of C2.

Detailed explanation-4: -The vertebrae in this region, atlas C1 and axis C2, support your skull, allow you to turn and move your head, and protect your spinal cord. To put it simply, higher the injury on the spinal cord, the more damage and loss of function the individual will experience.