| Type | Atlantoaxial joint complex: Synovial joint; biaxial |
| Articular surfaces | Median atlantoaxial joint: dens of axis (C2), osteoligamentous ring (anterior arch of atlas [C1], transverse ligament of atlas) |
| | Lateral atlantoaxial joints: inferior articular surface of lateral mass for atlas, superior articular facet of axis |
| Ligaments | Cruciform ligament (transverse ligament of atlas, superior and inferior longitudinal bands), tectorial membrane, alar ligaments, apical ligament of dens |
| Innervation | Ventral primary ramus of the second cervical spinal nerve |
| Blood supply | Deep cervical, occipital, vertebral arteries |
| Movements | Principal movement; axial rotation, |
| | Limited flexion, extension, lateral flexion |
Discussion