Lateral Atlantoaxial Joints

Question 1

Lateral Atlantoaxial Joint classification

Answer 1

Synovial, plane joints. An articulation between the superior articular processes on the axis and those on the inferior lateral masses of the atlas

Question 2

Lateral Atlantoaxial Joint articular surfaces

Answer 2

Superior articular processes of the Axis
Inferior facets of the lateral mass of the Atlas

Question 3

Lateral Atlantoaxial Joint joint capsule and synovial membrane

Answer 3

Each of the joints is enclosed by a loose fibrous capsule lined by synovial membrane. This attaches to the margins of the articular surface

Question 4

Lateral Atlantoaxial Joints ligament

Answer 4

Accessory Atlantoaxial Ligament – passes downwards and medially from the back of the lateral mass of the atlas to the back of the body of the axis.