Structures · Ligaments
Transverse ligament of the atlas
The ligament that holds the dens of C2 against the front arch of C1.
SchematicShow in the 3D spine
What the sources say
“The dens joins with the inner aspect of the anterior arch of the atlas, where it is held in place by the transverse ligament.” Betts et al. 2022, §7.3
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- The craniocervical junction
Where the skull meets the spine. The atlas carries the skull, the axis lets the head turn, and a small set of ligaments, above all the transverse ligament, holds the joints together.
For learning only. Levels and sizes vary between people; nothing here describes a particular person or gives medical advice. Sources: Betts et al. 2022, §7.3.