Tectorial membrane

[1]

Original Editor - Rachael Lowe

Top Contributors - Rachael Lowe, Priyanka Chugh, Kim Jackson and Evan Thomas  

Description[edit | edit source]

Upper cervical ligaments.png
Tectorial membrane.png

Strong broad structure which covers the Odontoid process and it's ligaments.

Continuous with the Posterior longitudinal ligament and found on the internal surface of the vertebral canal.

Attachments[edit | edit source]

Arises from the posterior surface of the body of the Axis and, expanding as it ascends, is attached to the basilar groove of the occipital bone, in front of the foramen magnum.

Its anterior surface is in relation with the Transverse ligament of the atlas and its posterior surface with the dura mater. As it enters the cranial cavity it becomes continuous with the dura mater.

Function[edit | edit source]

Contributes to the stability of the upper cervical spine. Limits Flexion (C0/C1 and C1/C2) and rotation (C0/C1).

Pathology[edit | edit source]

Examination[edit | edit source]

Recent Related Research (from Pubmed)[edit | edit source]

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References[edit | edit source]

  1. T. Oda, M.M. Panjabi, J.J. Crisco, H.U. Bueff, D. Grob, J. Dvorak. Role of tectorial membrane in the stability of the upper cervical spine. Clinical Biomechanics, Volume 7, Issue 4, November 1992, Pages 201–207