What is the superior nuchal line?

Extending lateralward from the external occipital protuberance on either side are two curved lines, one a little above the other. The lower is termed the superior nuchal line. The superior nuchal line gives origin to the Occipitalis and Trapezius, and insertion to the Sternocleidomastoideus and Splenius capitiT.

Just so, what bone is the superior nuchal line on?

occipital bone

Also Know, what is the nuchal ridge? Medical Definition of nuchal line : any of several ridges on the outside of the skull: as. a : one on each side that extends laterally in a curve from the external occipital protuberance to the mastoid process of the temporal bone. — called also superior nuchal line. b : occipital crest sense a.

Additionally, what is the inferior nuchal line?

Description. Running from the middle of the median nuchal line, across either half of the nuchal plane is the inferior nuchal line. The inferior nuchal line and the area below it receive the insertions of the Recti capitis posteriores major and minor.

Why is the external occipital protuberance important?

The external occipital protuberance is a raised area on the midline of the occipital bone where the posterior wall meets the base of the skull. The external occipital protuberance of the occipital bone is of functional importance because it is the origin for: 1. the trapezius muscle.

Do humans have nuchal crest?

The part of the skull where the neck muscles attach. The nuchal crest is larger in apes than it is in humans because apes are mostly quadrupeds and have to keep their head from drooping. The parts of the skull that articulate with the vertical column. In humans, the condyles are relatively far forwards.

What is temporal bone?

Anatomical terms of bone The temporal bones are situated at the sides and base of the skull, and lateral to the temporal lobes of the cerebral cortex. The temporal bones are overlaid by the sides of the head known as the temples, and house the structures of the ears.

Where is the superior temporal line located?

The superior temporal line lies above it. This is an anteroposterior arching line in the lower half of the bone that marks the upper limit of attachment for the temporalis muscle. The superior temporal line is the topmost curved line on the parietal bone and lies above the inferior temporal line.

Where is the nuchal region?

The nuchal region, otherwise known as the posterior region of the neck or the posterior cervical region, is the area at the back of the neck situated deep to the trapezius muscle.

Where is the nuchal crest located?

The nuchal crest in cephalopods is a prominent transverse ridge that extends across the dorsal surface of the head and on to the lateral surfaces at its posterior end.

What passes through the foramen magnum?

Apart from the transmission of the medulla oblongata and its membranes, the foramen magnum transmits the vertebral arteries, the anterior and posterior spinal arteries, the tectorial membranes and alar ligaments. It also transmits the accessory nerve into the skull.

What three muscles attach to the mastoid process?

The mastoid process serves for the attachment of the sternocleidomastoid, the posterior belly of the digastric muscle, splenius capitis, and longissimus capitis.

What is the function of the parietal bone?

Function(s): The parietal bones form the posterior roof of the skull. The parietal bones provide mechanical protection of the brain, which is a function they perform in conjunction with other bones of the skull.

What is the Occipitalis?

The occipitalis muscle (occipital belly) is a muscle which covers parts of the skull. Some sources consider the occipital muscle to be a distinct muscle. The occipitalis muscle is innervated by the facial nerve and its function is to move the scalp back. The muscles receives blood from the occipital artery.

How many occipital condyles do humans have?

The presence of a single occipital condyle in dinosaurs (including birds) and crocodilians is contrasted with the condition in amphibians and synapsids (including mammals such as Homo sapiens), where two occipital condyles are present.

Why do you think the nuchal lines might be helpful for distinguishing males from females?

This superior nuchal line helps in distinguishing between the male and female skull, as nuchal lines are more prominent, pronounced and heavy in males, as compared to females. Therefore, nuchal lines are very helpful in sex identification, by comparing the male and female skulls.

Where is occiput in human body?

The occipital bone is the trapezoidal-shaped bone found at the lower-back area of the cranium. The occipital is cupped like a saucer in order to house the back part of the brain. It is one of seven bones that fuse together to form the skull and is directly next to five of the cranium bones.

Where is the mastoid process?

Mastoid Process. The mastoid process is located in the posterior portion of the temporal bone. It is one of the two projections situated behind the ear. The mastoid process provides an attachment for certain muscles of the neck.

What muscles attach to the nuchal ligament?

This is attached to the posterior tubercle of the atlas, and to the spinous processes of the cervical vertebrae, and forms a septum between the muscles on either side of the neck. The trapezius and splenius capitis muscle attach to the nuchal ligament.

Can you feel occipital bone?

The bony skull bump — known as an external occipital protuberance — is sometimes so large, you can feel it by pressing your fingers on the base of your skull.

What is Ligamentum Nuchae?

The ligamentum nuchae is a large median ligament composed of tendons and fascia located between the posterior muscles of the neck. It covers the spines of C1 to C6 vertebrae. It is a superior and posterior extension of the supraspinous ligament.

Where is the external occipital crest?

The external occipital crest is part of the external surface of the squamous part of the occipital bone. It is a ridge along the midline, beginning at the external occipital protuberance and descending to the foramen magnum, that gives attachment to the nuchal ligament. It is also called the median nuchal line.

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