Anterior Arch of Atlas Anatomy in 3D

The shorter anterior portion of C1 that articulates with the dens of C2. It is held against the dens by the transverse ligament; rupture of this ligament or fracture of the arch (as in a Jefferson fracture) results in life-threatening atlanto-axial instability.

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Related structures

Anterior Tubercle of Atlas Posterior Arch of Atlas Anterior Articular Facet of Dens Axis Anterior Border of Fibula Anterior Border of Humerus Anterior Border of Radius Anterior Border of Tibia Anterior Border of Ulna