The body of C2 (axis) consists of partly fused centra of C1 (atlas) and C2 and a rudimentary intervertebral disc between.  A deep depression on each side of the anterior surface gives attachment to longus colli.  The inferiorly projecting anterior border gives attachment to the anterior longitudinal ligament, whereas the flat or slightly concave posterior surface gives attachment to the posterior longitudinal ligament, the deep and superficial laminae of the tectorial membrane and the inferior band of the cruciform ligament (from the lower border of the transverse band of the cruciform ligament - transverse ligament of atlas).  The inferior surface has a thin covering of hyaline cartilage, the ‘end-plate’, to which the adjacent intervertebral disc is attached.