external occipital protuberance

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 05:42:19 +0000

External Occipital Prominent: Understanding Its Role and Significance in Anatomy and Health The external occipital protuberance (EOP) is a small but important anatomical feature located at the midline of the top of the skull, precisely where the sagittal suture meets the lambdoid suture. This bony prominence serves as a key landmark in human cranial anatomy and plays a role in both structural support and clinical assessment. ### What Is the External Occipital Prominent? The external occipital protuberance is a raised point on the skull’s exterior, oriented horizontally at the center of the occipital bone. It acts as an attachment site for the nuchal ligament and surrounding muscles, such as the trapezius and other neck muscles that support the head and facilitate movement. Although the EOP is not prominently protruding in many individuals, it contributes to the unique topography of the human skull, reflecting evolutionary and functional adaptation.