Figure 20 The transverse ligament, apical ligament, and alar ligament The transverse ligament wraps around the odontoid process and attaches to C1 on both sides. The apical ligament inserts on the apex of the dens. The alar ligaments insert immediately lateral to the apical ligament insertion. Level: Structures: Other Structures: Pathology: Procedure: View: C1 – C2 Neural: Brainstem and spinal cord Dura Ligaments: Transverse ligament, apical ligaments, joint capsules None Normal None Composite (3/4), Front, Lateral, Caudal