Insertion with the opposite muscle into a median raphe which extends from the symphysis of the jaw to the hyoid bone and is closely united to the external surface of the geniohyoid. Some of the fibres gain insertion into the body of the hyoid bone through their insertion into the tendon of the stylohyoid (d).

Relations.—Outer surface with the submentalis (Fig. 64, c) and the digastric (Fig. 65, b). Lateral edge with the masseter (a), the digastric (b), and the mandibula. Caudal border with the stylohyoid (d). Inner (dorsal) surface with the geniohyoid (Fig. 67, g), the hyoglossus (Fig. 67, h), and the genioglossus (Fig. 67, f).

Action.—Raises the floor of the mouth and thus brings the hyoid forward.

M. ceratohyoideus.

Origin, the two proximal pieces of the cranial horn of the hyoid. The fibres pass caudad parallel to one another and within the middle constrictor of the pharynx.

Insertion into the whole length of the caudal cornu of the hyoid bone.

Relations.—Outer surface with the middle constrictor of the pharynx. Inner surface with the pharynx.

Action.—Draws craniad the body of the hyoid by bringing its cornua together and bending the joint between the two pieces of the cranial cornua.

The muscles connecting the hyoid and the tongue are described in connection with the description of the tongue.

III. MUSCLES OF THE BODY.

1. Muscles of the Back.

A. Muscles of the Shoulder

(connecting the forelimb with the back) (Fig. 68).

M. trapezius.—The trapezius muscle is divided in the cat into three portions, the spinotrapezius, the acromiotrapezius, and the clavotrapezius.

M. spinotrapezius, or trapezius inferior (Fig. 68, j).—The spinotrapezius (caudal part of the human trapezius) is a flat triangular muscle.

Origin from the tips of the spinous processes of all or nearly all the thoracic vertebræ and from the intervening supraspinous ligament. The origin may extend from a point anywhere between the first and fourth spines to any point between the eleventh and thirteenth.

Insertion along an S-shaped line (Fig. 76, k-l) which crosses the tuberosity of the scapular spine and forms an angle with the spine of about forty-five degrees. The line extends on one side onto the fascia covering the supraspinatus muscle, and on the other side onto the fascia covering the infraspinatus, but does not reach the borders of the scapula. The cranial two-thirds of the insertion is by a flat tendon which is broader craniad.

Relations.—Outer surface with the cutaneus maximus, and craniad with the acromiotrapezius (h). Inner surface with the latissimus dorsi (m) caudad and with the rhomboideus, supraspinatus, and infraspinatus craniad. Caudal border free; cranial border in contact with the acromiotrapezius (h).

Action.—Draws the scapula dorsocaudad.

M. acromiotrapezius, or trapezius superior (Fig. 68, h).—The acromiotrapezius (middle part of the human trapezius) is a flat four-sided muscle just craniad of the spinotrapezius, from the median dorsal line to the scapular spine.

Origin along the median dorsal line from the spinous process of the axis to a point anywhere between the spinous processes of the first and fourth thoracic vertebræ. Its caudal two-thirds is from a flat tendon which is directly continuous with the muscle of the opposite side and thus bridges the depression between the vertebral borders of the scapulæ. This tendon narrows craniad, and its cranial fourth is attached by a fascia to the spinous processes of the cervical vertebræ. At the cranial border of the muscle the fibres sometimes reach the middle line. The fibres of the muscle run nearly transversely.

Insertion (Fig. 76, h).—Into the outer surface of the metacromion, the glenoid border of the scapular spine from the metacromion to the tuberosity, and along a line continued for about one centimeter from the tuberosity onto the surface of the spinotrapezius (j) at the junction of its muscular and tendinous portions.

Relations.—Outer surface with the cutaneus maximus, the integument and platysma. Inner surface with a mass of fat partially covering the rhomboideus; with the occipitoscapularis, spinotrapezius, supraspinatus, levator scapulæ, and splenius. Near its origin its caudal border touches the outer surface of the spinotrapezius (j). Its cranial border is overlaid near its insertion by the levator scapulæ ventralis (f) and is closely related to the caudal border of the clavotrapezius (d) near its origin.

Action.—The two muscles hold the scapulæ together.

M. clavotrapezius (Fig. 68, d).—The clavotrapezius (cranial part of the human trapezius) is a flat muscle passing from the lambdoidal crest and middorsal line to the clavicle and covering the side of the neck.

Origin.—The medial half of the lambdoidal crest and the middorsal line between the crest and the caudal end of the spine of the axis. The fibres are parallel and pass caudoventrad so that the muscle covers the ventral surface of the neck caudally and fills the concavity at the front of the shoulder.

Insertion into the clavicle and into a raphe between the clavotrapezius and the clavobrachial (e) muscles. This raphe extends along the clavicle and for some distance laterad of it. The muscle is partly continuous with the clavobrachial (e).

Relations.—Outer surface with the platysma, and at its craniomedial angle with the levator auris longus. Inner surface with the rhomboideus, splenius, occipitoscapularis, levator scapulæ, cleidomastoid, and supraspinatus. The cranial edge touches the sternomastoid. The caudal border touches the acromiotrapezius near the origin.

Action.—Draws the scapula craniodorsad.

This muscle and the clavobrachial (e) are sometimes considered as forming a single muscle, the cephalohumeral, or cephalobrachial.

M. occipitoscapularis (or levator scapulæ dorsalis or rhomboideus capitis) (Fig. 73, a).—The occipitoscapularis (equivalent to a part of the human rhomboideus) is a slender flat muscle from the lambdoidal ridge to the coracovertebral angle of the scapula.

Origin, the medial half of the lambdoidal ridge beneath the clavotrapezius (Fig. 68, d). The origin does not extend quite to the middle line. The muscle passes almost directly caudad. Its caudal end is thicker and narrower than the cranial end and is wedged between the rhomboideus dorsally and the levator scapulæ ventrally.

Insertion either into the inner surface of the levator scapulæ near its dorsocranial border at its insertion or into the scapula near the coracovertebral angle (Fig. 78, f) or into both. Its fibres are very closely related to those of the rhomboideus.

Relations.—By its outer surface with the clavotrapezius (Fig. 68, d) and acromiotrapezius (h). At its insertion it is often overlaid by either the rhomboideus or the levator scapulæ or both. By its inner surface with the splenius (Fig. 73, b). Its caudal third is wedged between the rhomboideus and the levator scapulæ.

Action.—Draws forward and rotates the scapula.

M. rhomboideus (probably equivalent to the human rhomboideus major and rhomboideus minor).—A rather thick trapezoid muscle connecting the vertebral border of the scapula with the spinous processes of the adjacent vertebræ.

Origin from the caudal two or three fifths of the cervical supraspinous ligament and from the sides and tips of the first four thoracic vertebral spines and the interspinous ligaments caudad of these four spines. It passes lateroventrad, and the fibres converge somewhat so that the line of insertion is shorter than the line of origin.

Insertion by a short tendon (1 millimeter long) into the vertebral border of the scapula, the line of insertion passing gradually from the inner (Fig. 78, e) to the outer (Fig. 76, i) surface; and by fleshy fibres into the outer surface of the glenovertebral angle of the scapula (Fig. 76, i) in close connection with the origin of the teres major (j). A bundle of fibres at the cranial border may be inserted into the cranial border of the levator scapulæ at its insertion.

Relations.—By its outer surface with the spinotrapezius (Fig. 68, j), acromiotrapezius (h), latissimus dorsi (m), and clavotrapezius (d); it is usually partially separated from these muscles by a mass of fat. By its inner surface near its insertion with the serratus anterior (Fig. 73, i) and levator scapulæ (Fig. 73, h), and craniad with the splenius (Fig. 73, b), and the tendon of the serratus posterior superior (Fig. 73, l). At its lateral end it touches the occipitoscapularis (Fig. 73, a), serratus anterior (i), levator scapulæ (h), supraspinatus (Fig. 75, a), and infraspinatus (Fig. 75, c), and the teres major (Fig. 75, d).

Action.—Draws the scapula toward the vertebral column.

M. cleidomastoideus (clavicular portion of the human sternocleidomastoid) (Fig. 65, h).—A narrow flat muscle between the mastoid process and the clavicle.

Origin from the apex and caudal margin of the mastoid process of the temporal bone, by tendon and muscle fibres. The muscle passes caudad, becoming broader and thinner.

Insertion into the lateral four-fifths of the clavicle within the insertion of the clavotrapezius, and into the raphe which continues laterad of the clavicle.

Relations.—Outer or lateral surface at the caudal end with the clavotrapezius (Fig. 65, j); further craniad with the depressor conchæ (Fig. 64, b), the platysma, and the sternomastoid (Fig. 65, g). Inner or medial surface with the supraspinatus (Fig. 75, a) caudad, with the mass of fat in the axilla at its middle, with the levator claviculæ ventralis (Fig. 65, i) and obliquus capitis superior (Fig. 71, e) craniad.

Action.—Pulls the clavicle craniad when the head is fixed. Turns the head and depresses the snout when the clavicle is fixed.

M. levator scapulæ ventralis, or levator claviculæ (Fig. 68, f; Fig. 65, i; Fig. 72, c, c′, c″) (not usually found in man).

Origin (Fig. 72, c′, c″) in two parts. (1) By fleshy fibres from the ventral surface of the atlantal transverse process near its caudal border (c′). (2) By a small tendon from the ventral surface of the basioccipital opposite the middle of the length of the bulla tympani (c″) in common with the longus capitis (a). The two heads unite to form a flat band which passes caudoventrad and is inserted (Fig. 76, f) by a flat short tendon, about eight millimeters broad, into the outer surface of the metacromion along its ventral border, and into the infraspinatus fossa for one or two millimeters distad of that border.

Relations.—Near the insertion the dorsal border overlaps the border of the acromiotrapezius (Fig. 68, h), and the ventral border is attached by strong fascia to the border of the clavotrapezius (Fig. 68, d). The outer surface is in relation with the longissimus capitis (Fig. 73, g), clavotrapezius (Fig. 68, d), cleidomastoid (Fig. 73, d), platysma, and the skin. The inner surface is in relation caudad with the supraspinatus and with a mass of fat and a lymphatic gland which occupy the hollow of the shoulder. Craniad it is in relation with the cleidomastoid (Fig. 73, d), the scalenus (Fig. 73, f), the longus capitis (Fig. 73, e), and the obliquus superior (Fig. 71, e).

Action.—Pulls the scapula craniad.

M. latissimus dorsi (Fig. 68, m; Fig. 65, q; Fig. 77, e).—A large triangular sheet covering rather more than the dorsocranial half of the abdomen and thorax. It arises from the middorsal line, from the pelvis to the fifth thoracic spine, and is inserted into the humerus.

Origin from the tips of the neural spines of the vertebræ from the fourth or fifth thoracic to about the sixth lumbar. As far as the tenth or eleventh thoracic vertebra the origin is directly by muscle-fibres. Caudad of this is a broad triangular tendon which may be so closely united to the tendons of the underlying muscles that it cannot be separated. The muscle passes cranioventrad, the fibres converging to the axilla. In the axilla a part of the cutaneus maximus and the epitrochlearis (Fig. 65, r) take origin from the outer surface.

Insertion.—The muscle then ends in a flat tendon, to the cranial surface of which the fibres of the teres major (Fig. 77, c) are attached. Five to ten millimeters from the humerus the muscle-fibres of the teres give place to the tendon-fibres, and the conjoined tendon of the teres and latissimus which is thus formed (Fig. 79, d′) is inserted into a rough elongated area (Fig. 82, f) which lies parallel with the pectoral ridge on the medial surface of the shaft of the humerus (Fig. 48, g). The teres tendon forms the proximal part of the conjoined tendon. A part of the tendon of the latissimus may join the pectoralis minor at its distal or caudal border (Fig. 65), and thus it may contribute to the formation of both pillars of the bicipital arch (Fig. 65, t′).

Relations.—Its outer surface is covered caudad by the cutaneus maximus, and craniad by the spinotrapezius (Fig. 68, j) and the long head of the triceps (Fig. 68, k). The cranial border comes into relation with the spinotrapezius (j) and teres major (Fig. 77, c). The caudal border is in contact at the ventral end with the xiphihumeralis (Fig. 65, p) and pectoralis minor (Fig. 65, o). The inner surface of the latissimus covers near its cranioventral end parts of the xiphihumeralis (Fig. 68, n), pectoralis minor (Fig. 68, o), teres major (Fig. 77, c), and serratus anterior (Fig. 73, i). The caudal border covers a portion of the obliquus externus abdominis (Fig. 68, p); the dorsal and middle portions cover parts of the longissimus dorsi (Fig. 69, f″), the spinalis dorsi (Fig. 69, g), the serratus posterior superior (Fig. 73, l), and serratus posterior inferior (Fig. 73, n).

Action.—Pulls the arm caudodorsad.

M. serratus anterior and levator scapulæ (Fig. 73, i and h) in the cat are continuous at both origin and insertion, and it is barely possible to separate their contiguous borders without cutting the fibres. The muscle extends from the transverse processes of the last five cervical vertebræ and from the first nine or ten ribs to the medial surface of the scapula near its vertebral margin (Fig. 78, c and d).

M. serratus anterior (or serratus magnus) (Fig. 73, i).

Origin.—From the first nine or ten ribs in as many subdivisions. The first subdivision arises from the whole or nearly the whole of the caudal border of the first rib. The next four or five arise either from the ribs or from the costal cartilages near or at their junction with the ribs. The last four subdivisions arise from the ribs at increasing distances from the cartilages. The fibres converge and the subdivisions join one another.

Insertion (Fig. 78, c) into a narrow area on the medial surface of the scapula near the vertebral border. The glenoid half of the insertion is by a short tendon, the remainder by muscle-fibres.

Relations.—Outer (lateral) surface with the latissimus dorsi (Fig. 68, m), teres major (Fig. 77, c), subscapularis (Fig. 77, a), and near the origin with the rectus abdominis (Fig. 73, k), the scalenus (Fig. 73, f-f‴), and the obliquus externus (Fig. 68, p). Inner (medial) surface with the serratus posterior superior (Fig. 73, l) and its tendon, and with the intercostales externi (Fig. 73, m). At its insertion the muscle touches the rhomboideus. The cranial edge is united to the caudal edge of the levator scapulæ (Fig. 73, h).

Action.—Depressor of the scapula.

M. levator scapulæ (Fig. 73, h).

Origin.—From the dorsal tubercles of the transverse processes of the last five cervical vertebræ and from the ligaments between the tubercles. A slip sometimes arises from the atlas.

Insertion (Fig. 78, d) into a triangular area on the medial surface of the scapula near its vertebral border. It is continuous with the insertion of the serratus anterior.

Relations.—Outer (lateral) surface with a mass of fat separating it from the clavotrapezius (Fig. 68, d) and cleidomastoid (Fig. 65, h), and with the subscapularis (Fig. 77, a). Inner (medial) surface with the splenius (Fig. 73, b), the tendon of the serratus posterior superior (Fig. 73, l), and the cervical portion of the longissimus dorsi (Fig. 69, f″). Near the insertion the muscle touches the occipitoscapularis (Fig. 73, a) and rhomboideus. Caudal border united with the serratus anterior (Fig. 73, i).

Action.—Draws the scapula cranioventrad.

B. Muscles of the Back

(interconnecting parts of the vertebral column) (Fig. 69).—The muscles connected with the vertebral column form a mass which is less markedly differentiated into distinct muscles than is the case in the limbs. A great longitudinal mass of fibres begins in the sacral region and extends along the vertebral column to the head. This mass contains fibres running in various directions and attached at one or both ends to the sacrum, the innominate bones, the spinous, transverse, and articular processes, and to the arches, of the vertebræ; to the ribs and to the head, and having in general the function of moving the vertebræ in various ways, or of moving parts connected with the vertebræ. In some regions, especially the cervical, it is possible to distinguish clearly distinct muscles which have been differentiated from this mass. In the greater part of its extent, however, it is possible to distinguish only more or less closely interconnected bundles,—the more clearly marked of which have received special names.

The great dorsal mass running along each side of the vertebral column, occupying the space between the spinous processes and the transverse processes, receives the general name of M. extensor dorsi communis; the separate muscles are to be considered as parts or differentiations of this. The largest part of the mass is in the lumbar region (first portion of the longissimus dorsi, Fig. 69, f). At the caudal end of the thorax a lateral mass, parts of which become connected with the ribs, is separated off from the main part of the muscle; this extends craniad into the cervical region as M. iliocostalis (h). The main portion of the longissimus dorsi (f′) continues craniad on the medial side of the iliocostal into the neck region. At about the level of the eighth or ninth thoracic vertebra a strip begins to become separated off on the medial side of the longissimus; further forward it becomes clearly distinct, forming the spinalis dorsi (g). The separate muscles connecting the cervical vertebræ with each other and with the head are differentiations of the extensor dorsi communis.

A still deeper set of fibres, interconnecting the vertebræ, forms the multifidus spinæ and a number of other small muscles.

A description of the different bundles of fibres, under the names usually given, follows. Certain general principles are observed in some of the names used. Muscles which interconnect the spinous processes of the vertebræ receive the name spinalis. Those interconnecting contiguous spinous processes are called interspinalis. Muscles attached at one end to transverse processes, at the other to the spinous processes, receive the name transversospinalis. Semispinalis has the same signification as transversospinalis, but is a name usually applied to subdivisions of the transversospinalis group. The intertransversarii are muscles interconnecting the transverse processes.

(a) Muscles of the Lumbar and Thoracic Regions.

—The muscles of the lumbar and thoracic regions are mostly covered by a strong fascia, known as the lumbodorsal fascia (Fig. 68, y). This consists of two sheets, the superficial sheet being applied directly to the outer surface of the inner sheet, or separated from it by a mass of fat.

The superficial sheet (Fig. 68, y) overlies the lumbar region and the caudal half of the thoracic region. On the medial side it is attached to the spinous processes of the vertebræ and is united closely to the deeper layer. Laterally this fascia is continuous with the latissimus dorsi (m) and obliquus abdominis externus (p). Caudad it is attached to the spine of the ilium and becomes continuous with the fascia covering the gluteus muscles.

The deeper sheet (Fig. 70, c) is of a tendinous character, forming the external tendinous layer of the longissimus dorsi, many of whose fibres take origin from its under surface. It is described more fully in the account of this muscle.

M. longissimus dorsi (Fig. 69, f, f′, f″; Fig. 70, a and b).—A very large muscle, filling most of the region between the spinous processes and transverse processes of the lumbar and thoracic vertebræ, and extending into the cervical region.

The muscle is largest in the lumbar region (Fig. 69, f; Fig. 70), where it is divided into a narrow medial (Fig. 70, a) and a thick lateral portion (Fig. 70, b), the latter being again partially subdivided by the fascia. The two parts unite farther craniad.

The medial division (Fig. 70, a) consists of muscular bundles connecting the spinous processes of the vertebræ with the accessory and mammillary processes of other vertebræ; it is continuous caudad with the extensor caudæ lateralis (Fig. 70, f). The muscle-fibres take origin in the sacral region by small round tendons from the spinous processes of the last two sacral and the caudal vertebræ. They curve cranioventrad, forming a large belly, and are inserted into the accessory and mammillary processes of the lumbar vertebræ. In the thoracic region this division unites with that portion of the lateral division in which the fibres coming from the fascia of origin are inserted into the laminæ and transverse processes of the thoracic vertebræ.

The lateral division (Fig. 70, b) is much larger than the medial one, forming in the lumbar region a nearly cylindrical mass.

Origin from the crest of the ilium (Fig. 70, 1) and the medial surface of the ilium as far caudad as the auricular impression; also from the deep layer of the lumbodorsal fascia (c). This fascia is connected with the crest of the ilium and with the tips of the spinous processes of the vertebræ in the lumbar and thoracic regions, and from it a large proportion of the fibres of the longissimus take origin. In the lumbar region it dips into the muscle as an intermediate longitudinal sheet (c), partially dividing it lengthwise into two parts. Fibres taking origin from the lateral surface of this intermediate sheet curve cranioventrad, and are inserted on the transverse processes of the lumbar vertebræ. Fibres taking origin from the medial surface of the sheet pass mediocraniad and are inserted into the accessory processes and the surfaces of the vertebral arches. In the thoracic region (Fig. 69, f′) most of the fibres are inserted in separate bundles by small tendons on the transverse processes of the vertebræ, while some of the medial fibres unite with tendinous strands which become attached to the laminæ and articular processes of the vertebræ. At the region of the eighth or ninth thoracic vertebra the spinalis dorsi (Fig. 69, g) begins to be separated off on the medial side, the separation becoming complete only some distance farther craniad; the longissimus dorsi then continues into the cervical region (f″). Bundles of fibres become attached in the manner above described to transverse processes of all the thoracic vertebræ. In the cervical region (f″) the muscle spreads out and becomes thinner, and bundles of fibres become attached to the transverse processes of the cervical vertebræ as far forward as the second. In the more cranial portion of its extent the muscle receives fibres having origin on the articular processes and laminæ of the cervical and a few of the more cranial thoracic vertebræ.

The portion of the muscle which is inserted on the cervical transverse processes (f″) is sometimes distinguished as the longissimus cervicis; it is not well separated from the rest of the muscle in the cat. The longissimus capitis (Fig. 69, c; Fig. 73, g) is to be considered a differentiated cranial portion of this muscle.

Relations.—Outer surface with the following, beginning with the caudal end: the sartorius (Fig. 68, q), the latissimus dorsi (Fig. 68, m), the lumbodorsal fascia (Fig. 68, y), the serratus posterior inferior (Fig. 73, n) and superior (Fig. 73, l), and the levator scapulæ (Fig. 73, h). Lateral margin with the abdominal muscles, the iliocostal (Fig. 69, h), and the levator scapulæ (Fig. 73, h). Medial side with the multifidus spinæ (Fig. 70, d), the spinous processes of the thoracic vertebræ, the spinalis dorsi (Fig. 69, g), the complexus (Fig. 69, b), the biventer cervicis (Fig. 69, a), and the longissimus capitis (Fig. 69, e).

Action.—Extends the vertebral column.

M. iliocostalis (Fig. 69, h).—This is a muscle about 1½ to 2 centimeters wide, lying on the dorsal portion of the ribs, laterad of the longissimus dorsi (f′). It is composed of many partly separated bundles, each with an oblique tendon. The muscle begins at the last or next to the last rib, where it is connected with the longissimus by a rather small bundle of fibres. The rest of the muscle-fibres take origin in bundles from the lateral surface of the ribs, at about the angles, or from thin tendons connecting the angles, of the ribs; they pass obliquely craniad and are inserted, usually by tendons, on the lateral surface of the third or fourth rib craniad of the one on which the given bundle has origin. The insertions on any given rib lie ventrad of the origins on the same rib. In the cat this muscle is confined to the thoracic region.

Relations.—Outer surface with the serratus posterior inferior (Fig. 73, n) and superior (Fig. 73, l), and the levator scapulæ (Fig. 73, h). Inner surface with the dorsal surface of the ribs, the external intercostals (Fig. 69, i), and craniad with the levatores costarum. Medial edge in contact with the longissimus dorsi (Fig. 69, f′).

Action.—Draws the ribs together.

M. spinalis dorsi (Fig. 69, g).—A muscle interconnecting the spinous processes of vertebræ some distance apart, in the thoracic and cervical regions. It lies on the medial side of the longissimus dorsi (f′).

Origin by strong tendons from the tips of the spinous processes of the tenth to the thirteenth thoracic vertebræ. These tendons represent the cranial portion of the deep layer of the lumbodorsal fascia, and give origin also to many fibres of the longissimus dorsi, so that the two muscles are completely united at the origin of the spinalis. They become separated at about the level of the sixth thoracic vertebra, the spinalis forming a strong separate bundle passing into the neck region close against the sides of the spinous processes. The insertion is by fleshy bundles into the sides of the spinous processes of the first nine or ten thoracic vertebræ and of the cervical vertebræ as far forward as the second. Some of the fibres of this muscle pass craniad into the biventer cervicis (Fig. 69, a).

Relations.—Outer surface with the tendons of the serratus posterior inferior (Fig. 73, n) and serratus posterior superior (Fig. 73, l), and with the splenius (Fig. 73, b), biventer cervicis (Fig. 69, a), and complexus (Fig. 69, b). Lateral and ventral surface with the longissimus dorsi (f′); medial surface with the spinous processes and the multifidus spinæ.

Action.—Extensor of the vertebral column.

M. multifidus spinæ.—This consists of bundles of fibres which have origin on the transverse processes or neighboring parts, pass craniodorsad across one or more vertebræ, and are inserted into the spinous processes of vertebræ lying some distance craniad of the origin. They lie deeper than the muscles previously described. The muscle is most strongly developed in the lumbar region (Fig. 70, d), where it forms a thick interwoven mass in which it is difficult to distinguish separate bundles. The fibres in this region have origin on the accessory or mammillary processes and usually pass over more than one vertebra between origin and insertion; their insertions reach the dorsal ends of the spinous processes, so that part of the muscle lies immediately beneath the lumbar fascia. In other regions the multifidus is covered by other muscles. In the thoracic region the separate bands are more distinct, and usually pass in their course over but one intervening vertebra. In the cervical region the bands are interconnected, forming a fairly distinct single muscle, which is described separately below as the semispinalis cervicis (Fig. 71, c). The portion of this muscle attached to the head (semispinalis capitis) forms the biventer cervicis (Fig. 69, a) and complexus (b). Caudad this muscle passes onto the tail as the extensor caudæ medialis (Fig. 70, c).

Relations.—Outer and lateral surface in the lumbar region with the longissimus dorsi (Fig. 69, f) and the lumbodorsal fascia (Fig. 68, y); in the thoracic region with the longissimus dorsi (Fig. 69, f′) and spinalis dorsi (g). Inner surface with the arches, articular processes, and spinous processes of the vertebræ.

Action.—Extends the back when the muscles of both sides work together. Turns the vertebral column obliquely sideways when one set acts alone.

The deepest layer of the multifidus forms what is sometimes distinguished as the Mm. rotatores; no separate layer of this sort is to be made out in the cat.

Mm. interspinales.—Muscle-bundles passing from the spinous process of one vertebra to that of the vertebra immediately craniad or caudad of it. They are best developed in the lumbar region.

Mm. intertransversarii.—Muscle-fibres interconnecting the transverse processes. In the lumbar region the intertransversarii mediales connect the accessory and mammillary processes; the intertransversarii laterales lying between the transverse processes. In other regions only one set of the intertransversarii is to be distinguished.

(b) Dorsal Muscles of the Cervical Region.

—The clavotrapezius (Fig. 68, d) and occipitoscapularis (Fig. 73, a) have been described in connection with the muscles of the shoulder. The remaining muscles of this region may be considered as differentiations of the general vertebral musculature (M. extensor dorsi communis).

M. splenius (Fig. 73, b.)—A large sheet of muscle covering the dorsal part of the side of the neck, beneath the trapezii.

Origin from the whole cervical ligament and from the fascia covering the deeper muscles along a line which extends from the first thoracic spinous process caudolaterad for about two centimeters.

Insertion by a thin tendon into the whole lambdoidal ridge. Laterad the tendon may be fused with that of the longissimus capitis (Fig. 73, g).

Relations.—Outer surface with the sternomastoid (Fig. 68, c), occipitoscapularis (Fig. 73, a), clavotrapezius (Fig. 68, d), rhomboideus, tendon of the serratus posterior superior (Fig. 73, l), and the levator scapulæ (Fig. 73, h). Lateral edge closely united with the longissimus capitis (Fig. 73, g). Inner surface with the longissimus capitis, complexus (Fig. 69, b), and biventer cervicis (Fig. 69, a).

Action.—Lateral flexor of the head. The two together elevate the head.

M. longissimus capitis (trachelomastoideus) (Fig. 73, g; Fig. 69, e).—This is a slender muscle lying close against the lateral border of the splenius (Fig. 73, b), and sometimes fused with the splenius at its craniad end. It is a cranial continuation of the longissimus dorsi (Fig. 69, f″).

Origin by five slips which are attached by strong tendons to the anterior articular processes of the last four cervical vertebræ. The tendons are common to this muscle and the complexus. The five slips unite to form a flat belly which has its

Insertion by a strong rounded tendon into the mastoid process of the temporal bone. The tendon may be closely united to that of the splenius.

Relations.—Lateral surface with the sternomastoid (Fig. 68, c), the levator scapulæ (Fig. 73, h), and longissimus dorsi (Fig. 69, f″). Medial surface with the splenius (Fig. 73, b) (to which it is partly united), the complexus (Fig. 69, b), and the longus atlantis (Fig. 69, d).

Action.—Lateral flexor of the head.

M. biventer cervicis (Fig. 69, a) (medial portion of M. semispinalis cervicis et capitis).—The biventer cervicis is a flat muscle which lies beneath the splenius (Fig. 73, b), next the median line of the neck, with its fibres longitudinal.

Origin in three or four slips from the surface of the three or four aponeurotic arches which take origin from the tips of the spinous processes of the last cervical and the first three thoracic vertebræ and pass laterad and caudad to the anterior processes of the second, third, fourth, and fifth thoracic vertebræ. These arches are deviated from their straight course by four aponeurotic bands which pass from them obliquely caudad and dorsad to the sides of the spinous processes of the vertebræ into which the arches are inserted. The arches form the beginning of the sheet of fascia which passes outside of the longitudinal supraspinous muscles, and the anchoring bands form the beginning of a similar sheet which passes within the longitudinal supraspinous muscles. An additional slip may take origin from the cervical ligament between the last cervical and the first thoracic vertebræ. The fibres form a flat band divided by two or three oblique tendinous intersections. It adheres closely to the cervical supraspinous ligament.

Insertion by a strong tendon into the medial part of the lambdoidal crest.

Relations.—Outer surface with the splenius (Fig. 73, b) and at the caudal end with the longissimus dorsi (Fig. 69, f″). Inner surface with the spinalis dorsi (Fig. 69, g), the semispinalis cervicis (Fig. 71, c), and the rectus capitis posterior major (Fig. 71, a). Medial edge with the muscle of the opposite side; lateral edge with the complexus (Fig. 69, b).

Action.—Raises the snout.

M. complexus (Fig. 69, b) (lateral portion of M. semispinalis cervicis et capitis).—The complexus is closely associated with the biventer cervicis (a) and lies on its lateral side beneath the splenius (Fig. 73, b).

Origin by tendinous bands from the anterior articular processes of the last five or six cervical and the first one, two, or three thoracic vertebræ. The same bands give origin externally to the fibres of the longissimus capitis (Fig. 69, e), and internally to those of deeper muscles of the neck. The six or more muscular slips continued from these tendons unite to form a flat band, the

Insertion of which is by a flat tendon into the medial third of the lambdoidal crest some distance ventrad of the free edge of the crest. Near the insertion the lateral border of the muscle is connected by an aponeurotic band to the lateral border of the transverse process of the atlas.

Relations.—Outer surface at the dorsal border with the biventer cervicis (Fig. 69, a); at the middle with the splenius (Fig. 73, b); at the ventral border with the longissimus capitis (Fig. 69, e) and the longissimus dorsi (Fig. 69, f″). Inner surface with the cervical portion of the spinalis dorsi, with the semispinalis cervicis (Fig. 71, c), the obliquus capitis inferior (Fig. 71, b), the rectus capitis posterior major (Fig. 71, a), and the obliquus superior (Fig. 71, e).

Action.—Raises the head.

M. spinalis dorsi extends into the cervical region; it has been described.

M. semispinalis cervicis (Fig. 71, c).—This represents that portion of the multifidus spinæ which extends into the cervical region. It is not composed of distinct bundles, like the multifidus of the thoracic region, but all the fibres are united into a fairly well-defined muscle.

Origin from the articular processes of the last five cervical vertebræ.

Insertion into the spinous processes of the cervical vertebræ up to the second, the largest part of the muscle being inserted into the caudal end of the spine of the atlas.

Relations.—Outer surface with the spinalis dorsi (Fig. 69, g) and the complexus (Fig. 69, b). Inner surface with the vertebræ.

Action.—Extends the neck.

M. longissimus dorsi extends into the cervical region, where it is often distinguished as the longissimus cervicis (Fig. 69, f″). It has been described.

M. longus atlantis (Fig. 71, f; Fig. 69, d).—This represents a differentiated portion of the longissimus dorsi.

Origin from the transverse process and the side of the vertebral arch of the third cervical vertebra.

Insertion into the caudolateral angle of the wing of the atlas.

Relations.—Dorsal surface with the complexus (Fig. 69, b), the longissimus capitis (Fig. 69, e), and the obliquus inferior (Fig. 71, b). Ventral surface with the scalenus (Fig. 71, g), longissimus dorsi (Fig. 69, f″), and levator scapulæ (Fig. 71, h).

Action.—Extends the neck and turns the head sideways.

M. rectus capitis posterior major (Fig. 71, a).

Origin.—The whole length of the spinous process (or crest) of the axis, or its caudal part only. It is united by a raphe to the opposite muscle. The muscle passes craniad and laterad to its

Insertion into an area ventrad of the medial part of the lambdoidal crest beneath the insertion of the complexus (Fig. 69, b) and the biventer cervicis (Fig. 69, a).

Relations.—Dorsal surface with the biventer cervicis (Fig. 69, a). Ventral surface with the rectus capitis posterior medius (Fig. 71, d) and the obliquus capitis inferior.

Action.—Raises the snout.

M. rectus capitis posterior medius (Fig. 71, d). (This is in man a part of the rectus capitis posterior major.)—It lies beneath the rectus capitis posterior major (Fig. 71, a).