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Before studying the pharynx, the skull must be disarticulated from the vertebral column and the skull and pharynx displaced anteriorly. Steps 1 and 2 provide information on how to perform this initial procedure. Step 1 provides more anatomic detail than may be necessary. Students can start with Step 2 if so instructed.
With the body in the prone position, prepare to disarticulate the head from the vertebral column at the atlantooccipital joint. A wedge of occipital bone (10 cm at its base and 3 cm at its apex) may need to be removed in order to have a broad approach to the region of the atlantooccipital region.Links and References:
Grant's: 4.61, 4.62
Netter: 15, 16