Superior longitudinal band of cruciform ligament

The superior longitudinal band of the cruciform ligament is a component of the cruciform (cruciate) ligament complex at the craniocervical junction. It extends vertically from the transverse ligament of the atlas upward to attach to the basion of the occipital bone. This band, along with the transverse and inferior longitudinal bands, helps stabilize the odontoid process (dens) of the axis against the anterior arch of the atlas, preventing excessive cranial migration of the dens and contributing to atlantoaxial stability.