Atlantoaxial Ligaments

Question 1

Transverse ligament AA

Answer 1

Divides ring of atlas to two compartments
Ant- dens
Post- spinal cord
Thin layer attached to ant surface of C1
Wraps around dens
Prevents anterior displacement of dens
Allows rotation

Question 2

Alar Ligments AA

Answer 2

Attach either side of the dens
To medial aspects of the occiput
Limits flexion, side flexion, rotation
Prevents distraction of C1 on C2

Question 3

Apical Ligament AA

Answer 3

From apex of the dens

To the anterior edge of foramen magnum

Question 4

Tectorial Membrane AA

Answer 4

Continuation of the PLL
Extends from post aspect of dens
To occipital bone within anterior edge of foramen magnum

Question 5

Ligamentum Nuchae AA

Answer 5

Continuation of Supraspinous ligament
Extends from spinal process of C7
To external occipital protuberance
Deep part attaches to posterior tubercle of the atlas

Question 6

Posterior Atlanto-Axial Membrane AA

Answer 6

Continuation of ligament flavum

Connects lamina of C1-2

Question 7

Anterior Atlanto-Axial Membrane AA

Answer 7

Continuation of ALL
Continues superiorly as the Ant Atlanto-Occipital Membrane
From ant aspect of dens
To ant aspect of atlas