Connective Tissue
Superior Longitudinal Bands of Cruciform Ligament
Fasciculi longitudinales superior ligamenti cruciformis
Read moreStructure
Longitudinal bands are given off medially at the upper and lower borders of the transverse ligament of the atlas. The superior longitudinal band is strong and ascends between the apical ligament of the dense and the tectorial membrane. It attaches to the basilar part of the occipital bone. The inferior band is much weaker and passes inferiorly to the posterior surface of the axis.
Related parts of the anatomy
Function
The longitudinal bands of the cruciform ligament prevent displacement of the dens and keep it in articulation with the anterior arch of the atlas.
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Joint Ligament
Laxity of the TMJ ligaments → hypotonus of the temporal and masseter muscles → dropping of the jaw.
