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The tectorial membrane of atlanto-axial joint (occipitoaxial ligaments) is a tough membrane/[1]broad, strong band[2] representing the superior-ward prolongation of the posterior longitudinal ligament (the two being continuous).[3][1][2]

It attaches inferiorly onto (the posterior aspect of[2]) the body of axis.[3] It broadens superiorly. Superiorly, the membrane extends deep to the median atlanto-axial joint and its associated ligaments, then through the foramen magnum into the cranial cavity[1] where it ends by attaching onto the basilar part of occipital bone superior to the foramen magnum.[3]

Anatomy

The membrane broadens superiorly.[1]

Structure

The membrane consists of two laminae - superficial and deep.[2]

The superficial lamina broadens superiorly before attaching onto the superior/internal surface of the basilar part of occipital bone superior to the foramen magnum, here blending with the cranial dura mater.[2]

The deep lamina consists of a strong medial band which extends superiorly to the foramen magnum, and of two lateral bands which superiorly reach and blend with the articular capsules of the atlanto-occipital joint.[2]

D: Tectorial membrane of atlanto-axial joint

Relations

The membrane situated is posterior/deep to the transverse ligament of the atlas; the two are separated by a thin intervening layer of loose areolar connective tissue, and sometimes by a bursa.[2]

The membrane is situated anterior/superficially to the spinal dura mater (which is firmly attached to the tectorial membrane).[3]

References

  1. ^ a b c d Moore, Keith L.; Dalley, Arthur F.; Agur, Anne M. R. (2018). Clinically Oriented Anatomy (8th ed.). Wolters Kluwer. p. 101. ISBN 978-1-4963-4721-3.
  2. ^ a b c d e f g Standring, Susan (2020). Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice (42th ed.). New York. p. 841. ISBN 978-0-7020-7707-4. OCLC 1201341621.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
  3. ^ a b c d Sinnatamby, Chummy (2011). Last's Anatomy (12th ed.). Elsevier Australia. p. 426. ISBN 978-0-7295-3752-0.


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