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Dissection of anterior aspect of vertebral column

Cervical region.

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Image #220-2
Bassett Image
Diagram Image
Legend Image
Dissection of anterior aspect of vertebral column
Cervical region.
The longus capitis muscle has been divided close to its origins (15) from the transverse processes of the third to the sixth cervical vertebrae and also at its insertion (1) into the occipital bone. The removal of the belly of this muscle has exposed the longus colli muscle (13) and the anterior arch of the atlas (9).
  1. Area of insertion of longus capitis muscle
  2. Nasal cavity
  3. Nasopharynx
  4. Oropharynx
  5. Larynx
  6. Upper pointer: Internal carotid artery (within carotid canal, accompanied by internal carotid plexus) Lower pointer: Jugular foramen (opened)
  7. Lateral rectus capitis muscle
  8. Upper pointer: Hypoglossal nerve (XII) Lower pointer: Anterior rectus capitis muscle
  9. Upper pointer: Anterior atlantooccipital membrane Lower pointer: Anterior arch of atlas (covered by connective tissue)
  10. Transverse process of atlas
  11. Lateral atlantoaxial joint (pointer on joint capsule)
  12. Ventral branch cervical nerve II
  13. Longus colli muscle
  14. Superior cervical ganglion
  15. Origins of longus capitis muscle
  16. Ventral branch cervical nerve III
  17. Anterior intertransverse muscle
  18. Sympathetic trunk
  19. Anterior longitudinal ligament (partially covered by prevertebral fascia)
  20. Middle cervical ganglion
  21. Transverse process of vertebra C. VII