The rectus capitis lateralis muscle is an integral component of the prevertebral muscle group, which plays a pivotal role in head movement and serves as a vital surgical landmark.

Summary

• origin: superior transverse processes of the atlas

• insertion: inferior to the jugular processes of the occipital bones

• blood supply: branches of the vertebral, pharyngeal, and occipital arteries

• innervation: anterior ramus of the first cervical (C1) spinal nerve

• action: stabilisation and flexion of the head at the atlanto-occipital joint

Gross anatomy

Origin

The rectus capitis lateralis is a component of the prevertebral muscle group. This paired muscle resides in the neck, originating from the superior transverse processes of the atlas.

Insertion

The muscle inserts at the jugular processes of the occipital bones, positioned posteriorly to the internal carotid artery.

Arterial supply

The muscle primarily draws its blood supply from the vertebral, pharyngeal, and occipital arteries. The ascending cervical artery, a branch of the inferior thyroid artery (which itself originates from the thyrocervical trunk of the subclavian artery), provides a significant proportion of this supply.

Innervation

The dorso-lateral extensions of the anterior ramus of the C1 spinal nerve play a pivotal role in innervating the rectus capitis lateralis.

Action

The rectus capitis lateralis serves as an integral connector between the atlas and occipital bones, facilitating head movement.

Clinical significance

The muscles's proximity and interaction with vital veins, nerves, and arteries render it a critical surgical landmark. Its significance is particularly evident in skull base approaches utilised during jugular foramen interventions.