Anterior atlantoöccipital membrane

The anterior atlantoöccipital membrane (anterior atlantoöccipital ligament) is broad and composed of densely woven fibers, which pass between the anterior margin of the foramen magnum above, and the upper border of the anterior arch of the atlas below.

Laterally, it is continuous with the articular capsules.

In front, it is strengthened in the middle line by a strong, rounded cord, which connects the basilar part of the occipital bone to the tubercle on the anterior arch of the atlas.

This membrane is in relation in front with the Recti capitis anteriores, behind with the alar ligaments.

External links

• Roche Lexicon - illustrated navigator, at Elsevier 25420.000-1

This article was originally based on an entry from a public domain edition of Gray's Anatomy. As such, some of the information contained within it may be outdated.