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Anterior atlanto-occipital membrane
Other Terms:
Anterior atlantooccipital membrane,
Membrana atlanto-occipitalis anterior,
Membrana atlantooccipitalis anterior,
Membrane atlantooccipitale antérieure
Parts
None
Group
Vertebral ligaments
Description
A broad fibrous sheet that binds the anterior edge of the foramen magnum to the superior margin of the anterior arch of the atlas. The thickened median portion of this membrane is the continuation of the anterior longitudinal ligament. Laterally it covers the anterior surface of the atlanto-occipital joints.
Function
It stabilizes the atlanto-occipital junction anteriorly and limits extension of the skull.
Latin
Membrana atlantooccipitalis anterior
French
Membrane atlantooccipitale antérieure