APPLIED RADIOLOGICAL ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -The atlas and axis form the atlanto-axial joint, which allows head rotation. If you shake your head as if to say “no, ‘’ that is head rotation.

Detailed explanation-2: -The odontoid process, or dens, is a superior projecting bony element from the second cervical vertebrae (C2, or the axis). The first cervical vertebrae (atlas) rotates around the odontoid process to provide the largest single component of lateral rotation of the cervical spine.

Detailed explanation-3: -The cervical spine is the bony part of the neck. Its primary function is to provide support for the skull, while still allowing for movement. It is the most flexible part of the spine.

Detailed explanation-4: -The axis has a bony knob called the odontoid process that sticks up through the hole in the atlas. It is this special arrangement that allows the head to turn from side to side as far as it can. Special ligaments between these two vertebrae allow a great deal of rotation to occur between the two bones.

Detailed explanation-5: -This is the joint that allows the head to rotate from side to side, bend forward and bend backward. One of the unique features of this joint is a peg of bone called the odontoid process (sometimes called the dens).