Posterior atlanto-axial ligament
Original Editor - Rachael Lowe
Top Contributors - Kim Jackson, Evan Thomas, Daniele Barilla, Admin, Rachael Lowe and WikiSysop
Description[edit | edit source]
The posterior atlantoaxial ligament is a broad, thin membrane attached, above, to the lower border of the posterior arch of the atlas; below, to the upper edges of the lamina of the axis. It is a continuation of the Ligamentum flavum, and is in relation, behind, with the obliqus capitis inferior muscle. [1]It is part of a ligament complex called Altantoaxial Ligament Complex (Axis). These four ligaments extend from the Atlas to the Axis:
- Anterior Atlantoaxial Ligament
- Posterior Atlantoaxial Ligament
- Lateral Ligaments (2)
Attachments[edit | edit source]
From lower border of atlantal arch (and more superiorly to the occipital bone) and upper borders of lamina of C2.
Function[edit | edit source]
It contributes the stabilization of the atlanto-axial joint movement that overall allows 10-15° of flexion/extension and 30° of axial rotation.
Clinical Relevance[edit | edit source]
- Rupture
- - In case of traumatic and non-traumatic atlanto-axial subluxation/dislocation the posterior atlantisaxis ligamente could suffer a rupture. [2]
- Atlantoaxial instability (AAI)
- - Can originate in a congenital conditions, but in adults, it is primarily seen in the setting of acute trauma or degenerative changes due to the inflammatory pannus of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- Ossification
- - The ossification of the posterior atlantoaxial membrane that led to the development of cervical myelopathy is rare.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
There is no record of specific treatment of the Atlantoaxial ligament complex. Hovewer, in case of AAI or rupture, the treatment should include the cervical stabilization management . Check this page about Cervical Instability for further information.
Resources[edit | edit source]
See also[edit | edit source]
Anterior Atlantoaxial Ligament
Anterior Atlanto-occipital Ligament
Posterior Atlanto-occipital Ligament
Transverse ligament of the atlas