Lamina of vertebral arch

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Description:

The laminae are flat plates of bone forming the dorsal half of the vertebral arch. From their united apex projects the spinous process. The inferior margin of the lamina overlaps the superior portion of the subjacent lamina in a scale-like manner. This makes it difficult to access the spinal cord in this region of the vertebral column. The laminae provide an attachment surface for many muscles and ligaments.