Synonyms
Definition
- 1.
Craniocervical Junction: The junction of the base of the skull and the cervical spine including the occipital bone surrounding the foramen magnum (occiput), C1 (atlas), C2 (axis), and the intervening tendons and ligaments.
Introduction
The craniocervical junction (CCJ) is a term used to describe the interface between the skull and cervical spine, and more specifically it includes the occipital bone surrounding the foramen magnum and the first and second vertebrae. It is of note that this junction contains and provides protection for the transition of the lower brain stem, the medulla, to the cervical spinal cord. In addition the articulations of the skull, C1, and C2 play a vital role in the range of motion of the head. Hence, abnormalities at this junction may manifest in decreased range of motion if the bony elements are fused, or neurologic dysfunction if instability or stenosis causes compression of the brainstem, spinal cord, or...
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Taylor, C.S., Mangano, F.T. (2013). Craniocervical Junction, Abnormalities. In: Kountakis, S.E. (eds) Encyclopedia of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-23499-6_559
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-23499-6_559
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