Spinal cord Flashcards Preview

Module 8: Neurology > Spinal cord > Flashcards

Flashcards in Spinal cord Deck (16)
Loading flashcards...
1
Q

What is the spinal cord?

A

Extension of the CNS into the axial skeleton. Allows communication between the brain and body and local control of muscles.

2
Q

What are the functions of the spinal cord?

A

Transmit information, contain cell bodies of motor neurones, local processing of afferent and efferent information

3
Q

Define ‘meninges’

A

3 sheets of CT which envelope the brain and spinal cord. Pia mater, dura mater and arachnoid mater

4
Q

What are the functions of the meninges?

A

Physical support of the CNS, contain CSF, involved in CSF production/absorption

5
Q

Describe the histology of the dura

A

Dense collagen bundles, some fibroblasts, occasional blood vessels and sensory nerves

6
Q

Describe the histology of the arachnoid

A

Overlapping fibroblasts with a mesh of collagen fibres. Trabeculae connect to pia via collagen strands

7
Q

Describe the histology of the pia

A

Overlapping flattened fibroblasts, loose collagen network overlying the CNS

8
Q

Describe the gross structure of the meninges

A

Pia is closely applied to brain surface and spinal cord. It dips into nervous tissue with blood vessels to form the potential Virchow-Robin space which is continuous with the subarachnoid space. Fluid filled leptomeninges act as a shock absorbing cushion to protect the brain.

9
Q

What other structures do the meninges attach to?

A

Skull - dura contributes to inner periosteum (fuses meninges to calvarium) Dura is a free tube in the spinal column

10
Q

Where is the spinal cord tethered?

A

At both ends at the brain stem and filum terminal Along the length by nerve roots Supported by denticulate ligaments and CSF

11
Q

Where does the spinal cord terminate?

A

At the cauda equina

12
Q

What is the location of the cranial intumescence?

A

C6-T2. Supplies brachial plexus and thoracic limbs

13
Q

What is the location of the caudal intumescence?

A

L4-Cc5. Supplies lumbosacral plexus, pelvic limbs, sphincters and tail

14
Q

Describe arterial blood supply to the spinal cord

A
15
Q

What are the 3 vascular zones?

A
  1. Inner vascular zone - vertical arteries only
  2. Middle vascular zone - vertical and radial arteries
  3. Outer vascular zone - radial arteries only
16
Q

Describe the venous drainage

A