The**** anterior atlantooccipital membrane (anterior atlantooccipital ligament) is a broad, dense membrane extending between the anterior margin of the foramen magnum (superiorly), and (the superior margin of ) the anterior arch of atlas (inferiorly). **** The** membrane helps limit excessive movement at the atlanto-occipital joints. **

Anatomy

Structure

It****** is composed of broad, densely woven fibers; especially towards the midline ************ where the membrane is continuous medially with the anterior longitudinal ligament. ************ It is innervated by the cervical spinal nerve 1. ******

Relations

Medially,** it is continuous with the anterior longitudinal ligament. ** Laterally, it is blends with either articular capsule. This membrane is in relation in anteriorly with the rectus capitis anterior muscles, and posteriorly with the alar ligaments.