Superior Oblique Part of Left Longus Colli (Pars obliqua superior musculi longi colli)
Educational content only — not medical advice.
Anatomy
The anterolateral, superiorly tapering oblique portion of the prevertebral longus colli muscle. It arises from the anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of the third, fourth and fifth cervical vertebrae and ascends obliquely medially to insert into the tubercle on the anterior arch of the atlas. It acts to flex the upper cervical spine forward and to rotate the cervical vertebrae toward the same side.
Origin & insertion
From the anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of C3, C4 and C5, into the anterior tubercle of the anterior arch of the atlas (C1).
Action
Flexes the upper cervical vertebral column; assists in rotating the cervical spine to the ipsilateral side.
Innervation
Anterior rami of C2, C3 and C4 cervical spinal nerves.
Clinical notes
Longus colli tendinitis (calcific retropharyngeal tendinitis) typically involves calcium hydroxyapatite deposition in this superior oblique division, causing acute severe odynophagia and neck rigidity.
Related structures
Educational references
FAQ
What is the role of the Superior Oblique Part of Left Longus Colli?
The anterolateral, superiorly tapering oblique portion of the prevertebral longus colli muscle. It arises from the anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of the third, fourth and fifth cervical vertebrae and ascends obliquely medially to insert into the tubercle on the anterior arch of the atlas. It acts to flex the upper cervical spine forward and to rotate the cervical vertebrae toward the same side.
Why is the Superior Oblique Part of Left Longus Colli clinically important?
Longus colli tendinitis (calcific retropharyngeal tendinitis) typically involves calcium hydroxyapatite deposition in this superior oblique division, causing acute severe odynophagia and neck rigidity.
Source & license
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