Vertebra Flashcards
What structure is unique to cervical vertebra?
Fo. transversarium
What structures are transmitted by fo. transversarium?
Vertebral artery and vein
What is C2 also known as?
Axis
What is C1 also known as?
Atlas
What structure is unique to axis?
Dens
Where are the alar and apical ligaments found?
From the dens to the margins of the fo. magnum
What is the function of the alar ligament?
Connects the dens to the tubercles on the occipital condyles
Does the apical ligament have a structural function?
No it is very weak
Where is the transverse band of the cruciform ligament attached?
On each side of the tubercles of the atlas
What is the function of the transverse band?
Stops the dens flipping up and pressing into the spine causing death
What type of joint is the atlanto-occipital joint?
Synovial
What movement does the atlanto-occipital joint?
Nodding and lateral flexion
What are the articulating surfaces of the atlanto-occipital joint?
Occipital condyles and superior articulating facets of the atlas
What movement does the atlanto-axial joint?
Rotation
What are the articulating surfaces of the atlano-axial joint?
Superior articulating facets of axis, inferior articulating facets of atlas, dens
