Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 14, 2026

In situ Compressive Loading and Correlative Noninvasive Imaging of the Bone-periodontal Ligament-tooth Fibrous Joint
Published on: March 7, 2014
The apical ligament: anatomy and functional significance
R S Tubbs1, P Grabb, A Spooner
1Department of Cell Biology, University of Alabama, Birmingham, The Children's Hospital of Alabama, USA.
Object:
The authors conducted a study to describe the detailed anatomy of the apical ligament and to acknowledge or refute its historical description as a functionally significant contributor to craniocervical stability.
Methods:
In 20 adult human cadavers measurements of the apical ligament were obtained, and its detailed anatomy was observed. Ranges of motion were also assessed to discern the function of the apical ligament.
Conclusions:
Results of the study support the concept that the apical ligament is best described as a vestigial structure that offers no significant added stability to the craniocervical junction. In fact, this ligament was absent in 20% of the specimens examined. These data will aid physicians who frequently view images or manage clinical problems of the craniocervical junction because they may focus on other ligaments of this area and not the apical ligament.
Related Concept Videos
Anchoring Junctions
The Hyoid Bone
Structural Joints: Fibrous Joints
Suture
All the bones of the skull, except for the mandible, are joined to each other by a fibrous joint called a suture. The fibrous connective tissue found at a suture strongly unites the adjacent skull bones and thus helps to protect the brain and form the face. In...
Articulations of the Vertebral Column
Ankle Joint
Larynx
Anatomy of the Larynx
The larynx consists of various components, including cartilage, muscles, and vocal cords. Its structure includes three large unpaired cartilages—the thyroid, cricoid, and epiglottis—and three smaller paired cartilages—the arytenoids, corniculates, and...

