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Abstract
The human ligamentum nuchae is commonly referenced as a site for muscle attachments in the neck, but it is rarely described as being associated with stability of the cervical spine. This descriptive anatomical study re-examines the structure of the ligamentum nuchae in the context of spinal stability and compares this information with previous studies on the structure and function of this ligament. Dissections were performed on 13 elderly cadavers to observe the attachments and fiber direction of the ligamentum nuchae. Digital photographs were taken during each phase of the dissection, and all of the parts of the ligament were observed. This observational study shows that the ligamentum nuchae has four portions: A central cord-like portion, a central septal portion, and two paired "fanlike" portions. Only the cord-like portion provides a site for muscle attachment. From these observations, the potential contributions of all portions of the ligamentum nuchae to cervical stability are discussed.