First lumbar vertebra
Expansion
Lumbar vertebra 1
Purpose
Reference point for lumbar spine anatomy and pathology
Clinical Context
Lumbar vertebrae 1 to 5 in lumbar spine. L1 located at level of 12th rib. Reference for surgical approaches and pathology localisation.
Related Terms
- L2
- L3
- L4
- L5
Key Points
- L1 to L5 comprise lumbar spine; L4 to L5 most common level for disc herniation