Vertebral Column
Cervical Vertebrae
Atlas: The atlas is atypical in both structure and function. It articulates with the skull cranially and with the axis caudally. The main peculiarities of the atlas are the modified articular processes, the wing like lateral expansions, the lack of a spinous process, and the reduction of its body. Also seen on the atlas are thick lateral portions known as massae laterals. They unite the vertebral arch with the ventral arch, which is the body of the atlas
