Investigation of accessory transverse foramen in dry cervical vertebrae: incidence, variations, types, locations, and diagnostic implications

Background This research aimed to determine the incidence, variations, types, and potential locations of the accessory transverse foramen (ATF) in dry cervical vertebrae. A total of 250 Turkish dry cervical vertebrae were examined, with 500 transverse foramina investigated. The cervical vertebrae were categorized into five groups (C 3 –C 7 ), and each cervical vertebra was assessed bilaterally to determine the location, incidence, and side of the ATF. Results ATF was observed in 21 vertebrae (8.4%) and was distributed posteriorly (76.2%), posterolaterally (19.04%), and posteromedially (4.8%) in relation to the location of the TF. The incidence of ATF was 4.8% in C 3 , 28.6% in C 4 , 9.5% in C 5 , 23.8% in C 6 , and 33.3% in C 7 . Furthermore, a statistically significant difference was observed in the unilateral or bilateral occurrence of the ATF ( F = 3.079; p = 0.047, p < 0.05). Conclusions In this study, we have presented an investigative approach and discussed the potential implications of identifying the ATF in dry cervical vertebrae. The presence of ATF can be crucial in the diagnosis of variations in the vertebral artery (VA) and underlying disorders, potentially aiding in the determination of the cause of death or ancestry. Additionally, the posterior location of the ATF and its asymmetric distribution should be taken into account when evaluating dry cervical vertebrae, which may offer valuable information for the identification of variations.