Occipital condyles
(Redirected from Occipital condyle)
Occipital condyles are two rounded knobs on the occipital bone in the skull that form a joint with the first cervical vertebra, allowing the head to move relative to the neck. They are located on the underside of the skull, next to the foramen magnum.
Etymology[edit | edit source]
The term "occipital" comes from the Latin "occiput" which means "back of the skull". "Condyle" is derived from the Greek "kondylos", meaning "knuckle".
Structure[edit | edit source]
The occipital condyles are convex, oval-shaped protrusions on either side of the foramen magnum. They are composed of compact bone and are covered by a thin layer of hyaline cartilage to facilitate smooth movement. Each condyle has an anterior and a posterior part. The anterior part is larger and presents a concave surface which articulates with the superior facet of the atlas. The posterior part is convex and connects with the anterior atlanto-occipital membrane.
Function[edit | edit source]
The occipital condyles, together with the atlas, form the atlanto-occipital joint, which allows nodding movement of the head (flexion and extension). This joint also permits some lateral movement and a small degree of rotation.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
Damage to the occipital condyles can result in occipital condyle syndrome, a rare condition characterized by severe, unilateral, occipital headache and ipsilateral hypoglossal nerve palsy. This condition is usually caused by trauma, infection, or malignancy.
Related terms[edit | edit source]
See also[edit | edit source]
Occipital condyles Resources | ||
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