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.
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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: stabilization 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 utilized during jugular foramen interventions.
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