C2 (Axis; Second cervical vertebral body)
The First & Second cervical vertebral bodies are unique in their shape and function. C2, also known as the Axis, is the Second cervical vertebral body. This bone forms a joint with the Atlas (C1, First cervical vertebral body) at the complex C1-C2 articulation. The vertebral arteries take a complex course at the craniocervical junction where they course laterally though the Second cervical vertebral body, or Axis) and then pass through the transverse foramina of the Atlas (First cervical vertebral body).