what is the function of transverse ligament
sidebending and flexion/extension. The transverse ligament holds the dens against the anterior arch of the atlas. It has an upward prolongation to the occiput and a caudal extension to the posterior surface of the body of the axis, forming the cruciform ligament of the atlas. Its function is to restrict axial rotation, Fig. 1: Anatomical sketch of the atlas (1) and dens axis (2) from above, showing the atlanto-alar (3) and the occipito-alar ligaments (4) as well as the transverse (5) and the anterior atlanto-dental ligaments (6).