The large bone extensions at the back of the skull, the " processus paroccipitales ", are hanging down below the level of the foramen magnum.
32.
The lower division of the cruciform eminence is prominent and is named the internal occipital crest; it bifurcates near the foramen magnum and gives attachment to the falx cerebelli.
33.
On either side of the middle line the longus capitis and rectus capitis anterior are inserted, and immediately in front of the foramen magnum the anterior atlantooccipital membrane is attached.
34.
A juvenile female was observed to eat small parts of the brain of an intact skull that she could not break open by inserting a small stick through the foramen magnum.
35.
Also, the specimen showed short canine teeth, and the position of the foramen magnum ( the hole in the skull where the spine enters ) was evidence of bipedal locomotion.
36.
The human spinal cord extends from the foramen magnum and continues through to the conus medullaris near the second lumbar vertebra, terminating in a fibrous extension known as the filum terminale.
37.
Its long axis is directed medialward and slightly backward, and if prolonged to the middle line will meet that of the opposite condyle near the anterior margin of the foramen magnum.
38.
The weak apical ligament lies in front of the upper longitudinal bone of the cruciform ligament, and joins the apex of the deltoid peg to the anterior margin of the foramen magnum.
39.
The spinal cord passes through the foramen magnum providing continuity for the central nervous system ( CNS ) . extension, ( nodding yes ), and rotation ( shaking head no ).
40.
Lack of CSF pressure and volume can allow the brain to sag and descend through the foramen magnum ( large opening ) of the occipital bone, at the base of the skull.
