What does anterior atlanto-occipital membrane do?
The anterior atlanto-occipital membrane is a thin membrane that joins the upper border of the anterior arch of the atlas (C1) to the anterior inferior surface of the foramen magnum. It is a continuation of the anterior longitudinal ligament above the C1 level. It is immediately posterior to the prevertebral muscles.
What are the important structures in the atlanto-occipital region?
These are the ligamentum nuchae, alar ligament, apical ligament, lateral atlantooccipital ligament, anterior atlantooccipital membrane and ligament, posterior atlantooccipital membrane and tectorial membrane.
What movement does the atlanto-occipital joint allow?
Atlantoaxial joint
| Type | Atlantoaxial joint complex: Synovial joint; biaxial |
|---|---|
| Innervation | Ventral primary ramus of the second cervical spinal nerve |
| Blood supply | Deep cervical, occipital, vertebral arteries |
| Movements | Principal movement; axial rotation, Limited flexion, extension, lateral flexion |
What is the posterior atlanto-occipital membrane?
The posterior atlanto-occipital membrane (PAOM) is a thickened band of the ligamentum flavum extending from the posterior arch of the atlas to the posterior occipital bone. The posterior atlanto axial membrane (PAAM) is a correlate extending from the posterior arch of the atlas to the posterior elements of C2.
What is the function of the anterior longitudinal ligament?
The role of the ligaments is fundamental in determining the spine biomechanics in physiological and pathological conditions. The anterior longitudinal ligament (ALL) is fundamental in constraining motions especially in the sagittal plane. The ALL also confines the intervertebral discs, preventing herniation.
Does the atlanto-occipital joint allow the head movement that indicates Yes or no?
The atlas and the occipital bone form the atlanto-occipital joint, which allows neck flexion. When you nod your head as if to say “yes,” that is neck flexion. The atlas and axis form the atlanto-axial joint, which allows head rotation. If you shake your head as if to say “no,” that is head rotation.
What does the atlantoaxial joint do?
The C1 C2 spinal motion segment, also called the atlantoaxial joint, is located in the upper portion of the cervical spine. It consists of the C1 and C2 vertebrae, and the anatomical structures connecting them. This segment provides rotational motion, supports the head, and protects the spinal cord and nerve pathways.
What is the function of the apical ligament?
T he anatomy and function of the apical ligament (middle odontoid ligament, suspensory ligament), which lies between the alar ligaments and attaches the tip of the odontoid process of the axis to the basion, have infrequently been described, but this ligament has been ascribed a functional role in craniocervical …
What is the main function of the posterior longitudinal ligament?
The posterior longitudinal ligament connects and stabilizes the bones of the spinal column. It runs almost the entire length of the spine, from the 2nd vertebra in the cervical spine (neck) all the way down to the sacrum (end of the spine).
What is the function of the ligaments of the spine?
The system of ligaments in the vertebral column, combined with the tendons and muscles, provides a natural brace to help protect the spine from injury. Ligaments aid in joint stability during rest and movement and help prevent injury from hyperextension and hyperflexion (excessive movements).