The cruciform ligament of the atlas is a cruciform ligament composed of a transverse and a longitudinal limb.
Anatomy
The transverse limb, the Ligamentum transversum atlantisAtlas and keeps the apex of the dens in its articular facet on the atlas. The longitudinal limb consists of a superior and an inferior longitudinal fascicle and connects the anterior margin of the Foramen magnum with the body of the axis.
Function
Alongside the alar ligaments, the cruciform ligament of the atlas is the most important ligament for stability at the craniovertebral junction[^1].
