Tectorial membrane of atlanto-axial joint
| Tectorial membrane (axis) | |
|---|---|
Membrana tectoria, transverse, and alar ligaments. (Membrana tectoria labeled at far left.) | |
Median sagittal section through the occipital bone and first three cervical vertebræ. (Membrana tectoria labeled at left, second from top.) | |
| Details | |
| Identifiers | |
| Latin | membrana tectoria |
| TA98 | A03.2.04.007 |
| TA2 | 1704 |
| FMA | 25013 |
| Anatomical terminology | |
The tectorial membrane of atlanto-axial joint (occipitoaxial ligaments) is a tough membrane/broad, strong band representing the superior-ward prolongation of the posterior longitudinal ligament (the two being continuous).
It attaches inferiorly onto (the posterior aspect of) the body of axis. It broadens superiorly. Superiorly, the membrane extends deep to the median atlanto-axial joint and its associated ligaments, then through the foramen magnum into the cranial cavity where it ends by attaching onto the basilar part of occipital bone superior to the foramen magnum.