Basilar crest

The Basilar Crest is a bony ridge located on the interior side of the occipital bone in the human skull. It is a significant anatomical feature as it serves as the attachment point for several muscles and ligaments, including the rectus capitis posterior major muscle and the tectorial membrane.

Etymology

The term "basilar" is derived from the Latin word "basis", which means "base". The term "crest" comes from the Latin word "crista", which means "ridge". Therefore, "basilar crest" can be translated as "base ridge".

Anatomy

The basilar crest is located on the interior side of the occipital bone, at the base of the skull. It extends from the foramen magnum to the dorsum sellae of the sphenoid bone. The crest is a prominent bony ridge that serves as the attachment point for several muscles and ligaments. These include the rectus capitis posterior major muscle, which helps in the movement of the head, and the tectorial membrane, which is a broad ligament that extends from the occipital bone to the axis.

Clinical Significance

The basilar crest is an important anatomical landmark in neurosurgery and radiology. It is used as a reference point in imaging studies to determine the alignment of the skull and spine. Any abnormalities in the basilar crest, such as fractures or deformities, can lead to neurological problems, including headaches, dizziness, and neck pain.

Related Terms

• Occipital bone: The bone that forms the back and base of the skull.
• Rectus capitis posterior major muscle: A muscle located in the back of the neck that helps in the movement of the head.
• Tectorial membrane: A broad ligament that extends from the occipital bone to the axis.
• Foramen magnum: A large opening in the base of the skull through which the spinal cord passes.
• Dorsum sellae: A square-shaped part of the sphenoid bone located at the base of the skull.

• 
  Gray's Anatomy illustration of the basilar crest