Ligamentum Nuchae Flashcards
What is the classification of the ligamentum nuchae-spinous tubercle joint?
fibrous (amphiarthrosis) syndesmosis
What will the ligamentum nuchae be attached to?
- the external occipital protuberance
- external occipital crest
- the posterior tubercle of the posterior arch of C1
- spinous tubercles between C2 and C7 inclusive
What are the specific bony attaching sites on the vertebra for the ligamentum nuchae?
the spinous tubercle or its homolog
What are the layers of the ligamentum nuchae?
superficial and deep layers
What is the name given to the superficial layer of the ligamentum nuchae?
the funicular layer or part
What is the name given to the deep layer of the ligamentum nuchae?
the lamellar layer or part
What are the attachment sites for the superficial layer of the ligamentum nuchae?
- external occipital protuberance
- external occipital crest
- spinous tubercle of C7
What are the attachment sites for the deep layer of the ligamentum nuchae?
- posterior tubercle of the posterior arch of C1
- spinous tubercles between C2 and C6 inclusive
What is the status of the deep layer of the ligamentum nuchae in African-Americans?
it is typically a single layer reflecting the non-bifid spinous process condition
What is the status of the deep layer of the ligamentum nuchae in Caucasians?
it is paired where bifid spinous processes are present
What is the histological makeup of the ligamentum nuchae in quadrupeds?
it is a yellow elastic ligament
What is the histological makeup of the human ligamentum nuchae?
it is a yellow elastic ligament, but has more collagen fibers than in quadrupeds
What is the primary yellow elastic or elastic ligament of the spine?
ligamentum flavum
What is the classic function of the human ligamentum nuchae?
it brakes or limits flexion of the cervical spine
