Atlanto-axial joint Atlanto-axial joint The atlantoaxial joint is a joint in the upper part of the neck between the first and second cervical vertebrae; the atlas and axis. It is a pivot joint. The atlantoaxial joint is of a complicated nature. It consists of no fewer than four distinct joints. There is a pivot articulation between the odontoid process of the axis and the ring formed by the anterior arch and the transverse ligament of the atlas. There are three atlantoaxial joints: one median and two lateral: The ligaments connecting these bones are: The atlantoaxial joint in common terminology is actually a
Axis (anatomy) to these there is a secondary center for a thin epiphysial plate on the under surface of the body of the bone. Fractures of the dens, not to be confused with Hangman's fractures, are classified into three categories according to the Anderson–D'Alonso system: Axis (anatomy) In anatomy, the second cervical vertebra (C2) of the spine is named the axis (from Latin "axis", "axle") or epistropheus. By the atlanto-axial joint, it forms the pivot upon which the first cervical vertebra (the atlas), which carries the head, rotates. The most distinctive characteristic of this bone is the strong odontoid process known as