Name

# Longus Colli

Pronunciation

(LONG–gus col-le)

Origin/Proximal Attachment

Superior oblique: Anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of C3-5. Inferior oblique: Anterior surface of the bodies of T1 and2 Vertical: Anterolateral surfaces of C5-T3

Insertion/Distal Attachment

Superior oblique: Anterior vertebral bodies several segments above Inferior oblique: Anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of C5 & 6 Vertical: Anterior surfaces of C2-4

Action/Relevance

Flexes neck

Innervation

Ventral rami (C2-6)

Notes

Longus colli is the longest and most medial of the prevertebral muscles.

It arises from the:

* anterior bodies of the T1 to T3 vertebrae

* anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of C3 to C7 vertebrae

It inserts into the:

* anterior tubercle of the atlas

* vertebral bodies of C2 to C4

Innervation is from the anterior primary rami of C2 to C6.

Its action is to flex and rotate the cervical spine.