Anatomy & Physiology: The Unity of Form and Function, 7th Edition

Published by McGraw-Hill Education
ISBN 10: 0073403717
ISBN 13: 978-0-07340-371-7

Chapter 8 - Section 8.3 - Figure 8.24 - The Atlas and Axis, Cervical Vertebrae C1 and C2 - Page 250: 1

Answer

Rupture of the transverse ligament would permit the atlas vertebra to be displaced anteriorly ; the dens of the axis would then compress and possibly damage the spinal cord.

Work Step by Step

It is important, therefore, that the transverse ligament be intact to keep the atlas in its proper position relative to the axis.
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