SuboccipitalTriangle. An extensive dissection of the suboccipital region has exposed the atlantic part of the left vertebral artery as it emerges from the transverse foramen of C2 (axis) vertebra enroute to the transverse foramen of the atlas and the superior border of its posterior arch. The laminae of these vertebrae are connected by a connective tissue bridge as the ligamentum flavum. Musculature associated with the spinous process of C2 includes the right rectus capitis posterior major and obliquus capitis inferior muscles. The obliquus capitis superior muscle extends from the transverse process (lateral mass) of the atlas to the lateral half of the inferior nuchal line of the occipital bone where it converges on the insertion of the rectus major muscle. The smaller rectus capitis posterior minor muscles are in view with origins on the posterior tubercle of the atlas and insertions into the medial portions of the inferior nuchal line. Emerging from the intervertebral foramen between the atlas and axis is the C2 dorsal (spinal) root ganglion and the C2 spinal nerve. The left longissimus capitis muscle is shown inserting into the mastoid process. (Image courtesy of PA Rubino)
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