atlanto-axial joint (atlanto-odontoid joint of Cruveilhier)

Introduction

• a compound joint between 1st (atlas) & 2nd (axis) cervical vertebrae
• the dens (odontoid process) of the axis is the pivot of the atlanto-axial joint

Pathology

• crowned dens syndrome

More general terms

• compound (complex) joint

More specific terms

• tectorial membrane of median atlantoaxial joint; posterior occipitoaxial ligament; Weitbrechti ligament

Additional terms

• 1st cervical vertebra (C1)-atlas
• 2nd cervical vertebra (C2)-axis