transverse ligament of the atlas; Lauth ligament; transverse atlantal ligament

Introduction

A thick strong band which arches across the ring of the atlas.

Divides the ring the atlas into 2 unequal parts:

• Posterior & larger part serves for the transmission of the cord & its membranes & the spinal accessory nerves.
• Anterior & smaller contains the odontoid process.

Function

• Serves to retain the odontoid process in firm connection with the anterior arch.

More general terms

• ligament
• 1st cervical vertebra (C1)-atlas

Additional terms

• cruciform (cruciate) ligament of atlas (C1)