APPLIED RADIOLOGICAL ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -The atlas (plural: atlases) is the first cervical vertebra, commonly called C1 . It is an atypical cervical vertebra with unique features. It articulates with the dens of the axis and the occiput, respectively allowing rotation of the head, and flexion, extension and lateral flexion of the head.

Detailed explanation-2: -Introduction. The Atlas (the first cervical vertebra-C1) differs from the other cervical vertebrae in that it has no body or spinous process. It is comprised of two bony arches with two bony masses laterally. It articulates with the Occiput above and C2 (the Axis) below.

Detailed explanation-3: -The atlas articulates superiorly with the occipital condyles found on each side of the foramen magnum of the skull. Inferiorly, it articulates with the second cervical vertebra (C2), which is also known as the axis.

Detailed explanation-4: -The C1 atlas is the uppermost cervical vertebra of the spine. It supports the head and-along with the C2 axis, the cervical vertebra just below it-allows the head to nod and rotate from side to side. At birth, children have softer bones.

Detailed explanation-5: -The first cervical vertebra, or atlas, articulates with the occiput rostrally and the axis caudally. It consists of two articulating lateral masses that are connected anteriorly and posteriorly by neural arches (Fig. 2-3). The lateral masses are also connected coronally by the transverse atlantal ligament.