Transverse process of lumbar vertebra

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Description:

The name is technically a misnomer, because the majority of this process is actually the homologue of a rib. However with history on its side, the name transverse process will undoubtedly remain its name. On the upper three lumbar vertebrae this process is longer and more horizontal, becoming shorter and more posteriorly directed on lumbar vertebrae four and five. It is the attachment site for many muscles.