p.21
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
Where is the spinal cord anatomically positioned?
Within the vertebral canal.
p.5
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
What role does general morphology play in spinal cord studies?
It aids in understanding the structure-function relationships within the spinal cord.
p.9
Practical Aspects of Spinal Cord Pathologies
What procedure can be performed between the 3rd and 4th lumbar vertebrae?
Lumbar punctures for CSF study.
p.19
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
Where is the ependymal canal located?
In the middle of the spinal cord.
p.29
Vascularization of the Spinal Cord
What supplies blood to the spinal cord?
Branches of the vertebral and segmental arteries.
p.12
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What appears at the level of the anterior collateral furrows?
The anterior motor roots.
p.22
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What forms the spinal canal?
It is formed by the vertebral foramina of the vertebral bodies.
p.15
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the focus of the internal configuration of the spinal cord?
It involves the organization and structure of the spinal cord's internal components.
p.17
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What does the gray matter of the spinal cord contain?
Cell bodies of neurons, their dendrites, and their synapses.
p.6
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
What is the appearance of the spinal cord?
It is whitish, cylindrical, and slightly flattened anteriorly and posteriorly, with enlargements in the cervical and lumbar regions.
p.1
Introduction to the Spinal Cord
What is the focus of the course S3: Anatomy3?
Anatomy of the spinal cord.
p.5
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
Why is understanding general morphology important in biology?
It helps in understanding the function and evolution of organisms.
p.28
Vascularization of the Spinal Cord
What is vascularization?
The process of forming blood vessels in an organ or tissue.
p.6
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
Where does the spinal cord extend from and to?
From the foramen magnum to the lowest border of the first lumbar vertebra, terminating at the conus medullaris.
p.16
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What are the three horns of the gray matter in the spinal cord?
Anterior, lateral, and posterior horns.
p.32
Vascularization of the Spinal Cord
What are the two major veins associated with the venous drainage of the spinal cord?
The azygos vein on the right and the hemiazygos vein on the left.
p.18
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the function of the motor descending tract?
To carry motor signals from the brain to the spinal cord.
p.29
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
What is the vertical arterial axis in the spinal cord?
Anterior spinal axis, which houses the anterior median furrow.
p.4
Introduction to the Spinal Cord
What is the spinal cord a part of?
The central nervous system (CNS).
p.34
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
How is a medullary segment identified?
By the birth of a pair of spinal nerves (anterior motor root and posterior sensory).
p.22
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What structures bound the spinal canal posteriorly?
The laminae (vertebral arches) and yellow ligaments.
p.40
Practical Aspects of Spinal Cord Pathologies
What is spinal cord compression classified as?
A neurosurgical emergency.
p.33
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What is functional anatomy?
The study of the structure of the body and its parts in relation to their function.
p.16
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the function of the pathways in the white matter?
They connect the brain with the rest of the body.
p.38
Spinal Reflexes and Neural Pathways
What is the function of descending tracts in the spinal cord?
Carry information from the brain to the periphery.
p.37
Spinal Reflexes and Neural Pathways
Can reflexes be generated in the spinal cord independently from the brain?
Yes, many reflexes are generated in the spinal cord independently from the brain.
p.36
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What is the function of the small posterior branch of a spinal nerve?
Intended for sensory or motor innervation of the back.
p.42
Practical Aspects of Spinal Cord Pathologies
What does traumatic pathology refer to?
Injuries or damage to the body resulting from external forces.
p.44
Practical Aspects of Spinal Cord Pathologies
What is the impact of degenerative pathologies on quality of life?
They can significantly reduce mobility and increase pain, affecting daily activities.
p.13
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What are the three furrows found on the posterior surface of the spinal cord?
The posterior median sulcus and the right and left posterior collateral sulcus.
p.29
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
How many posterior spinal axes are there?
Two in number, housing the posterior collateral groove.
p.10
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the significance of the external features of the spinal cord?
They help in identifying different segments and understanding their functions.
p.11
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What sulci are found on the lateral aspect of the spinal cord?
Anterior-lateral and posterior-lateral sulci.
p.11
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
Where do the root filaments emerge in relation to the spinal cord?
Anteriorly and posteriorly on each side.
p.17
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the shape of the gray matter in the spinal cord?
It resembles butterfly wings.
p.11
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the significance of the shallow posterior median sulcus?
It is a key feature of the external configuration of the spinal cord.
p.28
Vascularization of the Spinal Cord
How does the venous drainage of the spinal cord occur?
Through the internal vertebral venous plexus.
p.33
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What role does the spinal cord play in the nervous system?
It acts as a major conduit for information traveling between the brain and the body.
p.18
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the role of the spinothalamic tracts?
To transmit pain and temperature sensations.
p.26
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
How does cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) contribute to spinal cord stability?
It cushions the spinal cord and acts as a hydraulic buffer.
p.3
Introduction to the Spinal Cord
What does the term 'introduction' typically signify in a text?
It provides an overview or background information on the topic.
p.5
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
What does general morphology refer to?
The study of the form and structure of organisms.
p.34
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What is a medullary segment?
An anatomical-functional unit of the spinal cord.
p.28
Vascularization of the Spinal Cord
Why is vascularization important for the spinal cord?
It supplies oxygen and nutrients necessary for its function and health.
p.22
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What bounds the spinal canal laterally?
Articular processes and pedicles.
p.37
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What is the primary function of the spinal cord?
It acts as a nervous center and a conduit for ascending and descending pathways.
p.38
Spinal Reflexes and Neural Pathways
What do ascending tracts in the spinal cord do?
Convey information from the periphery to the brain.
p.24
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What is the peri-dural space?
The space between the dura mater and the spinal canal, filled with fat and venous plexus.
p.32
Vascularization of the Spinal Cord
What type of veins are included in the peri-spinal veins?
They are part of the venous network surrounding the spinal cord.
p.24
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What is found in the subarachnoid space?
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
p.17
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What structures are located on either side of the ependyma canal?
The anterior gray commissure and the posterior gray commissure.
p.7
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
What is lumbar lordosis?
The curvature between T12 and L2.
p.27
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What do the meninges accompany laterally?
The roots to the foramen.
p.12
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What are the three furrows on the anterior side of the spinal cord?
The anterior median fissure and the right and left anterior collateral sulcus.
p.22
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What bounds the spinal canal anteriorly?
The vertebral bodies, reinforced by intervertebral disks and longitudinal ligaments.
p.16
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the central part of the spinal cord made of?
Gray matter, which is butterfly-shaped and comprised of neuronal cell bodies.
p.30
Vascularization of the Spinal Cord
Which arteries supply the cervical level of the spinal cord?
Ascending cervical artery and vertebral arteries.
p.17
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What are the three horns formed by the gray matter?
Anterior (motor), Posterior (sensitive), Lateral (visceromotor and viscerosensitive).
p.4
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
Why is the spinal cord considered crucial?
It facilitates our daily activities.
p.24
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
Where is the subdural space located?
Between the arachnoid mater and the dura mater.
p.37
Spinal Reflexes and Neural Pathways
What are the two types of spinal reflexes?
Monosynaptic and polysynaptic reflexes.
p.25
Spinal Cord Segments and Nerves
Where do motor nerve roots emerge from?
The front of the spinal cord.
p.26
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
Where does the filum terminale extend from?
From the conus medullaris to the coccyx.
p.42
Practical Aspects of Spinal Cord Pathologies
What are the potential outcomes of spinal cord traumatic injuries?
Paralysis, loss of sensation, and impaired bodily functions.
p.43
Spinal Cord Pathologies
What imaging technique is commonly used to diagnose spinal cord tumors?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
p.19
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the ependymal canal?
A canal located in the middle of the spinal cord, usually virtual.
p.10
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the primary focus of external configuration in anatomy?
It examines the outer structure and features of an anatomical entity.
p.18
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the white substance of the spinal cord formed into?
Nerve fibers surrounded by their myelin sheath and grouped into bundles.
p.18
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What type of tract is the pyramidal beam?
A motor descending tract.
p.15
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the function of gray matter in the spinal cord?
Gray matter processes information and contains neuronal cell bodies.
p.16
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What surrounds the gray matter in the spinal cord?
White matter, which is made of axons.
p.20
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What role do mechanisms of fixation play in anatomy?
They provide support and stability to anatomical structures, preventing dislocation or injury.
p.25
Spinal Cord Segments and Nerves
What are the types of spinal nerves and their quantities in humans?
8 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 5 sacral, and 1 coccygeal.
p.7
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
What is the shape of the spinal cord?
Double S shape with three curvatures.
p.20
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
How do anatomical relationships influence movement?
They determine the range and type of movement possible at joints and within the body.
p.20
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What might happen if anatomical relationships are compromised?
It can lead to instability, increased risk of injury, or impaired function.
p.2
Vascularization of the Spinal Cord
What is the focus of the vascularization section?
The blood supply to the spinal cord.
p.42
Practical Aspects of Spinal Cord Pathologies
What are common causes of traumatic pathology in the spinal cord?
Car accidents, falls, sports injuries, and violence.
p.9
Practical Aspects of Spinal Cord Pathologies
What is the alternative lumbar puncture site besides the 3rd and 4th lumbar vertebrae?
Between the 4th and 5th lumbar vertebrae.
p.10
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What are the main components of the external configuration of the spinal cord?
The spinal cord's external configuration includes the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal regions.
p.8
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
What is the key developmental difference between the spinal cord and the vertebral column?
The spinal cord finishes growing at age 4, while the vertebral column finishes growing at age 14-18.
p.12
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the function of the anterior median fissure?
It separates the two halves of the spinal cord.
p.20
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What are the anatomical relationships in the context of fixation?
They refer to the spatial and structural connections between different anatomical structures that help maintain stability.
p.33
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
How does functional anatomy relate to the spinal cord?
It examines how the spinal cord's structure supports its roles in movement, reflexes, and neural communication.
p.15
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the central canal of the spinal cord?
A fluid-filled space that runs through the center of the spinal cord.
p.33
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What are the key components of spinal cord functional anatomy?
Includes neurons, glial cells, and various pathways for sensory and motor signals.
p.7
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
What is cervical lordosis?
The curvature between C1 and C7.
p.7
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
How many enlargements does the spinal cord have?
Two: cervical and lumbar.
p.43
Spinal Cord Pathologies
What are the primary symptoms of spinal cord tumors?
Pain, weakness, sensory loss, and bowel or bladder dysfunction.
p.13
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What do the right and left posterior collateral sulcus delimit?
The posterior sensory cord.
p.5
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
What are the key components of general morphology in biological systems?
Shape, size, structure, and arrangement of parts.
p.11
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What are the main longitudinal grooves on the surface of the spinal cord?
Deep anterior fissure and shallow posterior median sulcus.
p.4
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What type of information does the spinal cord transmit from the periphery?
Sensitive information to the brain.
p.7
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
What are the superior and inferior limits of the spinal cord?
Superior: C1 (Pyramidal decussation); Inferior: L1 - L2 (Medullary cone).
p.16
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the ependymal canal?
A structure associated with the spinal cord, though the specific function is not detailed in the text.
p.44
Practical Aspects of Spinal Cord Pathologies
What does degenerative pathology refer to?
The deterioration of tissues or organs over time, often leading to functional impairment.
p.44
Practical Aspects of Spinal Cord Pathologies
What are common examples of degenerative pathologies?
Osteoarthritis, degenerative disc disease, and spinal stenosis.
p.7
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
What is dorsal kyphosis?
The curvature between C7 and T12.
p.31
Vascularization of the Spinal Cord
What types of arteries terminate in the perimedullary arterial circle?
Short superficial arteries for white matter and long deep arteries for gray matter.
p.42
Practical Aspects of Spinal Cord Pathologies
What are some common symptoms of traumatic spinal cord injuries?
Numbness, weakness, loss of bladder control, and difficulty breathing.
p.14
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What are the two bundles formed by the posterior cord at the cervical level?
Goll bundles and Burdach bundles.
p.13
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
Where do the posterior sensory roots end?
At the level of the posterior collateral furrows with the dorsal root ganglion.
p.10
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
How does the external configuration relate to spinal cord injuries?
Understanding external features aids in diagnosing and treating spinal cord injuries.
p.15
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What are the primary components found in the internal configuration of the spinal cord?
Gray matter, white matter, and central canal.
p.28
Vascularization of the Spinal Cord
What are the main arteries supplying the spinal cord?
The anterior spinal artery and the paired posterior spinal arteries.
p.8
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
Why does the spinal cord occupy only the upper two thirds of the vertebral canal in adults?
Due to the disproportionate growth rates between the spinal cord and the vertebral column.
p.4
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
How is the spinal cord described in terms of size?
It is a relatively small bundle of tissue.
p.37
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
How does the spinal cord interact with the brain?
It relays information to and from the periphery under the influence of the brain.
p.38
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
Is the spinal cord merely a conduit?
No, it also modifies and integrates the information that passes through it.
p.17
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What does the lateral horn of the spinal cord contain?
Visceromotor at the anterior part and viscerosensitive at the posterior part.
p.44
Practical Aspects of Spinal Cord Pathologies
What is a key characteristic of degenerative pathologies?
They often progress slowly and may result in chronic pain or disability.
p.21
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What is the function of the meninges?
To provide cushioning and protect the spinal cord from injury.
p.4
Introduction to the Spinal Cord
What follows the brain in the CNS?
The spinal cord via the brainstem.
p.4
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What are the two main functions of the spinal cord?
Nervous center and conduit for ascending and descending pathways.
p.4
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What type of information does the spinal cord transmit from the brain?
Motor information to the periphery.
p.38
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What is found within the white matter of the spinal cord?
Functional anatomy and spinal cord neural pathways.
p.24
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What are the three protective layers surrounding the spinal cord called?
Meninges: pia mater, arachnoid mater, and dura mater.
p.36
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What is a dermatome?
A sensory area supported by a medullary segment and its roots.
p.22
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
Through what do spinal nerves pass to enter the peripheral nervous system?
They pass through the intervertebral foramina.
p.36
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What is a myotome?
A motor area supported by a medullary segment and its roots.
p.26
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What are denticulate ligaments?
Extensions of the pia mater that anchor the spinal cord laterally to the dura mater.
p.26
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What is the function of the filum terminale?
Provides longitudinal stability by attaching the spinal cord to the coccyx.
p.36
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What is the function of the large anterior branch of a spinal nerve?
Intended for innervation of the trunk and limbs.
p.44
Practical Aspects of Spinal Cord Pathologies
How can degenerative pathologies be managed?
Through physical therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery.
p.23
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What structures are contained within the spinal canal?
Spinal cord, meninges, blood vessels, spinal nerve roots, and surrounding fatty and connective tissues.
p.18
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What are the two types of sensory ascending tracts mentioned?
The lemniscal tract and the spinothalamic tracts.
p.28
Vascularization of the Spinal Cord
What role do the radicular arteries play in spinal cord vascularization?
They supply blood to the spinal roots and segments of the spinal cord.
p.7
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
What are the three spinal curvatures?
Cervical lordosis, dorsal kyphosis, lumbar lordosis.
p.33
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What is the significance of spinal cord segments?
They correspond to specific regions of the body, influencing motor and sensory functions.
p.25
Spinal Cord Segments and Nerves
How are spinal nerves formed?
By the merging of sensory and motor nerve roots.
p.2
Practical Aspects of Spinal Cord Pathologies
What practical aspects are discussed in relation to the spinal cord?
Clinical implications and pathologies.
p.32
Vascularization of the Spinal Cord
What is the function of the perimedullary venous network?
It drains into three main satellite veins to the spinal axes.
p.11
External Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is the function of the deep anterior fissure?
It is a longitudinal groove that helps in the external configuration of the spinal cord.
p.22
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
Where do spinal nerves emerge from?
They emerge from the spinal cord.
p.32
Vascularization of the Spinal Cord
What is the role of the epidural venous plexus?
It is part of the venous drainage system of the spinal cord.
p.18
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What does the lemniscal tract carry?
Sensory information related to touch and proprioception.
p.36
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What are the two branches that each spinal nerve divides into?
A small posterior branch and a large anterior branch.
p.2
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What does the section on relationships and mechanisms of fixation address?
The connections and support structures of the spinal cord.
p.44
Practical Aspects of Spinal Cord Pathologies
What role does aging play in degenerative pathologies?
Aging is a significant risk factor that can lead to the development of degenerative conditions.
p.7
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
What is the significance of the cervical enlargement?
It is the origin of the brachial plexus.
p.43
Spinal Cord Pathologies
What is the significance of tumor location in the spinal cord?
It affects symptoms and treatment approaches.
p.15
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What role does white matter play in the spinal cord?
White matter contains myelinated axons that transmit signals up and down the spinal cord.
p.26
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What structures stabilize the spinal cord?
The brainstem at the bulbomedullary junction, denticulate ligaments, filum terminale, and cerebrospinal fluid.
p.25
Spinal Cord Segments and Nerves
Where do sensory nerve roots emerge from?
The back of the spinal cord.
p.2
Functional Anatomy of the Spinal Cord
What does the functional anatomy section explore?
The functions and roles of different parts of the spinal cord.
p.7
General Morphology of the Spinal Cord
What is the significance of the lumbar enlargement?
It is the origin of the lumbosacral plexus.
p.43
Spinal Cord Pathologies
What is a common characteristic of benign spinal cord tumors?
They grow slowly and may not invade surrounding tissues.
p.20
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
Can you name a common mechanism of fixation in the body?
Ligaments and tendons are common mechanisms of fixation.
p.25
Spinal Cord Segments and Nerves
What two components form the spinal nerves?
A sensory nerve root and a motor nerve root.
p.2
Internal Configuration of the Spinal Cord
What is covered in the internal configuration section?
The internal structure of the spinal cord.
p.24
Anatomical Relationships and Mechanisms of Fixation
What is the location of the subarachnoid space?
Between the arachnoid mater and pia mater.
p.31
Vascularization of the Spinal Cord
What is the origin of the perimedullary arterial circle?
Anastomosis between the radiculomedullary arteries and the anterior and posterior spinal axes.
p.42
Practical Aspects of Spinal Cord Pathologies
What is the significance of early intervention in traumatic spinal cord injuries?
It can improve recovery outcomes and reduce long-term disability.
p.43
Spinal Cord Pathologies
What is the difference between primary and secondary spinal cord tumors?
Primary tumors originate in the spinal cord, while secondary tumors spread from other parts of the body.
p.25
Spinal Cord Segments and Nerves
Where are spinal nerves located in relation to the spinal cord?
On the sides of the spinal cord.
p.43
Spinal Cord Pathologies
How can spinal cord tumors affect neurological function?
By compressing the spinal cord and disrupting nerve signals.
p.43
Spinal Cord Pathologies
What are the treatment options for spinal cord tumors?
Surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
