Ponticulus

Ponticulus is a Latin term that translates to "little bridge". In the field of Anatomy, it refers to small bony structures that form bridge-like connections in the human body. There are two main types of ponticuli recognized in human anatomy: the Ponticulus posticus and the Ponticulus subiculum.

Ponticulus Posticus[edit | edit source]

File:Ponticulus posticus.jpg

Ponticulus posticus on a lateral cervical radiograph

The Ponticulus posticus (also known as "arcuate foramen", "posterior ponticle", or "Kimmerle anomaly") is a small bony bridge on the posterior arch of the atlas in the spinal column. It is formed when the posterior atlantooccipital membrane ossifies. The presence of a ponticulus posticus can lead to certain clinical implications, such as headaches and vertigo, due to the compression of the vertebral artery and/or the suboccipital nerve.

Ponticulus Subiculum[edit | edit source]

The Ponticulus subiculum (also known as "anterior ponticle") is a small bony bridge that forms on the anterior arch of the atlas. It is less common than the ponticulus posticus and its clinical significance is still under investigation.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The presence of ponticuli can have various clinical implications. The ponticulus posticus, for instance, can cause neck pain, headaches, vertigo, and tinnitus. It can also complicate certain surgical procedures involving the cervical spine. The clinical significance of the ponticulus subiculum is less well understood, but it may also have implications for surgical procedures.