3D CT reconstruction was reliable for studying anatomic characteristics of C7‑SP. In addition, a significant difference in the DRTS was identified between the DR and ND groups (P<0.05). Furthermore, the DLTS was significantly different between the DL and ND groups (P<0.05). Among the three groups, differences in ∠α and ∠β were statistically significant (P<0.05). The angle of the SP deviation was referred to as ∠α, the angle between the SP axis and the line crossing the tips of the transverse processes was referred to as ∠β and the angle between the vertebral body axis and the SP axis was referred to as ∠γ. The length of the SP was also determined. The vertical distances between the borders of the left and right transverse processes and the tip of the SP, were termed DLTS and DRTS, respectively. Three distances and three angles were recorded on C7‑SP. All subjects were grouped according to their deviation of C7‑SP: Deviating to the right (DR group), deviating to the left (DL group) and no deviation (ND group). After CT scanning, the images were reconstructed in 3D. A total of 245 subjects meeting the selection criteria were examined. The present study aimed to clarify anatomic characteristics of C7‑SP by using a three‑dimensional (3D) computed tomographic (CT) reconstruction technique. However, the spinous process of C7 (C7‑SP) displays an anatomical deviation among individuals. Palpation of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7) is important for the diagnosis and treatment of neck and chest conditions.

Spinous processes