ansa of atlas

An obsolete term for a nerve loop formed by the anterior branch of the first cervical spinal nerve as it joins the ascending branch of the second cervical nerve, which sends a branch to the hypoglossal nerve, forming the superior root of the ansa cervicalis; it is located between the transverse process of the atlas and the internal jugular vein.

All content on this website, including dictionary, thesaurus, literature, geography, and other reference data is for informational purposes only. This information should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional.