Anatomic relation between the rectus capitis posterior minor muscle and the dura mater
G D Hack1, R T Koritzer, W L Robinson
1Department of Restorative Dentistry, University of Maryland at Baltimore, USA.
Study Design:
Anatomic study of the suboccipital region, specifically the deep muscles of the suboccipital triangle, was performed in cadaveric specimens.
Objective:
To observe and describe the relationship between the deep suboccipital musculature and the spinal dura.
Summary Of Background Data:
A review of the literature revealed no reports describing a physical connection between suboccipital musculature and the spinal dura.
Methods:
Dissections of the suboccipital region were performed in 10 embalmed and one fresh sagittally hemisected head and neck specimens.
Results:
A connective tissue bridge between the rectus capitis posterior minor muscle and the dorsal spinal dura at the atlanto-occipital junction was observed in every specimen. The fibers of the connective tissue bridge were oriented primarily perpendicular to the dura. This arrangement of fibers appears to resist movement of the dura toward the spinal cord.
Conclusions:
Awareness of the physical relation between the rectus capitis posterior minor muscle and spinal dura via this connective tissue bridge should lessen the potential risk of dural damage during surgery. This connective tissue bridge may help resist dural infolding during head and neck extension.
Related Concept Videos
01:14Cranial Bones: Superior and Posterior View
The frontal bone is the single bone that forms the forehead. At its anterior midline, between the eyebrows, there is a slight depression called the glabella. The frontal bone also forms the supraorbital margin of the orbit. Near the middle of this margin is the supraorbital foramen, the opening that provides passage for a sensory nerve to the forehead. The frontal bone is thickened just above each supraorbital margin,...
01:27Cranial Bones: Lateral View
The temporal bone forms the lower lateral side of the skull. The temporal bone is subdivided into several regions. The flattened upper portion is the squamous portion of the temporal bone. Below this area and projecting anteriorly is the zygomatic process of the temporal bone, which forms the posterior portion of the zygomatic arch. Posteriorly is the mastoid portion of the temporal bone. Projecting...
01:28Articulations of the Vertebral Column
01:14Muscles for Facial Expressions
01:19Muscles that Move the Head
The bilateral sternocleidomastoid, or SCM, and the suprahyoid and infrahyoid muscles are significant head flexors. The SCM muscles originate at the sternum and clavicle and attach to the mastoid process of the temporal bone. The SCM contracts bilaterally to bend the head forward, whereas...
01:19Cranial and Spinal Meninges
Cranial Meninges
These meningeal layers cover the cranium. The dura mater is the outermost layer of cranial meninges. It is a thick and durable membrane of dense...