Anatomic, functional, and radiographic review of the ligaments of the craniocervical junction

Peter Fiester; Dinesh Rao; Erik Soule; Peaches Orallo; Gazanfar Rahmathulla

doi:10.4103/jcvjs.JCVJS_209_20

Anatomic, functional, and radiographic review of the ligaments of the craniocervical junction

J Craniovertebr Junction Spine. 2021 Jan-Mar;12(1):4-9. doi: 10.4103/jcvjs.JCVJS_209_20. Epub 2021 Mar 4.

Authors

Peter Fiester¹, Dinesh Rao¹, Erik Soule¹, Peaches Orallo², Gazanfar Rahmathulla³

Affiliations

¹ Department of Neuroradiology, University of Florida Health, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
² Department of Anesthesia, University of Florida Health, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
³ Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida Health, Jacksonville, FL, USA.

Abstract

The craniocervical junction (CCJ) is a complex and unique osteoligamentous structure that balances maximum stability and protection of vital neurovascular anatomy with ample mobility and range of motion. With the increasing utilization and improved resolution of cervical magnetic resonance imaging, craniocervical injury is being more accurately defined as a spectrum of injury that ranges in severity from overt craniocervical disassociation to isolated injuries of one more of the craniocervical ligaments, which may also lead to craniocervical instability. Thus, it is vital for the radiologist and neurosurgeon to have a thorough understanding of the imaging anatomy and function of the CCJ.

Keywords: Craniocervical junction; magnetic resonance imaging; trauma.

Publication types

Review