Anterior atlantooccipital membrane
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The anterior atlantooccipital membrane (anterior atlantooccipital ligament[citation needed]) is a broad, dense[1] membrane extending between the anterior margin of the foramen magnum (superiorly), and (the superior margin of[2]) the anterior arch of atlas (inferiorly).[3][2][1]
| Anterior atlantooccipital membrane | |
|---|---|
Anterior atlantooccipital membrane and atlantoaxial ligament | |
| Details | |
| Identifiers | |
| Latin | membrana atlantooccipitalis anterior |
| TA98 | A03.1.08.002 |
| TA2 | 1631 |
| FMA | 25005 |
| Anatomical terminology | |
The membrane helps limit excessive movement at the atlanto-occipital joints.[3]
Anatomy
Structure
It is composed of broad, densely woven fibers; especially towards the midline[3] where the membrane is continuous medially with the anterior longitudinal ligament.[3][1] It is innervated by the cervical spinal nerve 1.[2]
Relations
Medially, it is continuous with the anterior longitudinal ligament.[3][1]
Laterally, it is blends with either articular capsule.[1]
This membrane is in relation in anteriorly with the rectus capitis anterior muscles, and posteriorly with the alar ligaments.[citation needed]
