Abstract: ObjectiveTo study the relationship between the shape and area of cervical zygapophysial joint facet and cervical vertebral disease. MethodsThe hyperosteogency rate of both cervical vertebral body and the susceptible site on the same cervical vertebral body were investigated on 50 sets of cervical vertebrae with hyperosteogency.The shape and area of cervical zygapophysial joint facet were observed on other 45 sets of normal adult cervical vertebrae. ResultsThe cervical vertebral zygapophysial joint facet showed mainly three shapes: round, elliptic and irregular, with elliptic shape predominate all. There is significance only on inferior facet on C_4-5 and C_5-6 joints (P<0.05).Conclusions There is some relationship between the shape and area of the cervical zygapophysial joint facet and the cervical hyperosteogency.

Key words: cervical vertebra, zygapophysial joint, hyperosteogency