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Anatomy Questions Flashcards

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1
Q

What are the four regions of the vertebral column?

A
  • Cervical
  • Thoracic
  • Lumbar
  • Sacrum
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2
Q

How many vertebrae are in the cervical region?

A

7

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3
Q

What is the spinal curve terminology for an anterior curve?

A

Lordosis

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4
Q

What is the spinal curve terminology for a posterior curve?

A

Kyphosis

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5
Q

What is scoliosis?

A

A lateral curvature with a rotation component

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6
Q

List the functions of the spine.

A
  • Supports the thoracic cage
  • Muscle attachment
  • Upper and lower limb attachment
  • Protection of the spinal cord
  • Shock absorption
  • Production and control of movement
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7
Q

What movements can the spine perform?

A
  • Flexion
  • Extension
  • Lateral / Side Flexion
  • Rotation
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8
Q

What are the two main parts of a typical vertebra?

A
  • Vertebral body (anteriorly)
  • Vertebral arch (posteriorly)
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9
Q

What are the functions of articular processes?

A
  • Articulate with adjacent vertebrae
  • Transmit weight
  • Enable movement
  • Limit movement in some directions
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10
Q

What is the role of the transverse processes?

A

Attachments for muscles and ligaments

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11
Q

What is the vertebral foramen?

A

The space enclosed by the vertebral arch that protects the spinal cord

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12
Q

What characterizes typical cervical vertebrae?

A
  • Small rectangular body
  • Large vertebral foramen
  • Transverse foramen
  • Bifid spinous process
  • Uncovertebral joints
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13
Q

What are atypical cervical vertebrae?

A
  • C1 - Atlas
  • C2 - Axis
  • C7 - Vertebra Prominens
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14
Q

What are the key features of typical thoracic vertebrae?

A
  • Round body
  • Long slanted spinous process
  • Facet joints oriented vertically
  • Demifacets on the body
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15
Q

What are the characteristics of typical lumbar vertebrae?

A
  • Large wide body
  • Broad, short laminae and pedicles
  • Quadrangular spinous process
  • Mamillary process
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16
Q

What is the sacrum composed of?

A

5 fused vertebrae

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17
Q

What is the function of the intervertebral disc?

A
  • Shock absorption
  • Allows movement and load transition
  • Provides stability to the spinal column
  • Limits excessive movements
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18
Q

What is the annulus fibrosus?

A

Ring of collagen fibres arranged in layers, thicker towards the center of the disc

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19
Q

What is the nucleus pulposus?

A

A semi-fluid mass of mucoid material that deforms under pressure

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20
Q

True or False: The facet joints are synovial plane joints.

A

True

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21
Q

What type of joints are zygapophysial joints?

A

Synovial plane joints

They are located between the vertebral arches of adjacent vertebrae.

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22
Q

What structures form the zygapophysial joint?

A

Inferior articular process of one vertebra with the superior articular process of the vertebra below

This connection allows for articulation between vertebrae.

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23
Q

Which components are found in zygapophysial joints?

A
  • Articular cartilage
  • Synovial membrane
  • Joint capsule

These components are essential for joint function and lubrication.

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24
Q

What is the function of the intervertebral disc?

A

Provides stability to the spinal cord

The intervertebral disc acts as a cushion between vertebrae, allowing for movement and support.

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25
Fill in the blank: The inferior vertebral notch is located on the _______ of a vertebra.
inferior side
26
Fill in the blank: The superior vertebral notch is located on the _______ of a vertebra.
superior side
27
True or False: Zygapophysial joints are found between the vertebral bodies.
False ## Footnote Zygapophysial joints are located between the vertebral arches, not the bodies.
28
What does the term 'intervertebral foramen' refer to?
The opening between adjacent vertebrae ## Footnote It allows for the passage of spinal nerves.
29
What is the role of the articular cartilage in zygapophysial joints?
To provide a smooth surface for joint movement ## Footnote Articular cartilage reduces friction during movement.
30
What are the functions of the intervertebral disc?
* Shock absorption * Allows movement and load transition * Provides stability to the spinal column * Limits excessive movements ## Footnote These functions are essential for the overall health and mobility of the spine.
31
What is the anulus fibrosus?
The outer layer of the intervertebral disc, providing structural support. ## Footnote It consists of concentric lamellae of collagen fibers.
32
What is the nucleus pulposus?
A semi-fluid mass or mucoid material that makes up the inner core of the intervertebral disc. ## Footnote It is composed of 88% water.
33
True or False: The nucleus pulposus transmits applied pressure in all directions.
True ## Footnote This characteristic allows it to deform under pressure from any direction.
34
What clinical issue can arise with intervertebral discs?
Intervertebral discs can bulge or prolapse, causing back and/or leg pain. ## Footnote This condition can lead to significant discomfort and mobility issues.
35
What type of joints are the facet or zygapophysial joints?
Synovial joints ## Footnote They allow for movement between the vertebrae and are critical for spinal motion.
36
What are the three distinct components of the intervertebral disc?
A central nucleus pulposus, a peripheral annulus fibrosus, two vertebral endplates ## Footnote The intervertebral disc plays a crucial role in the structure and function of the spine.
37
What is the function of the anterior longitudinal ligament?
Limits extension ## Footnote It runs the length of the vertebral column covering the vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs.
38
What is the primary role of the posterior longitudinal ligament?
Limits flexion ## Footnote This ligament also runs along the length of the vertebral column.
39
What is the ligamentum flavum?
A short but thick ligament connecting the laminae of adjacent vertebrae from C2 to S1, mainly limiting flexion of the lumbar spine ## Footnote It varies in thickness across different regions of the spine.
40
Where does the supraspinous ligament connect?
Connects from C7 vertebra to the sacrum ## Footnote It limits flexion of the spine.
41
What is the function of the interspinous ligament?
Limits flexion ## Footnote Its fibers connect anteriorly with the ligamentum flavum and posteriorly with the supraspinous ligament.
42
What do the intertransverse ligaments do?
Limit lateral flexion of the spine ## Footnote They are placed between the transverse processes of the spine.
43
What are the main movements of the lumbar spine?
* Flexion * Extension * Rotation * Lateral flexion ## Footnote These movements are essential for daily activities and spinal mobility.
44
How much flexion is generally available in the lumbar spine?
Approximately 50-60 degrees ## Footnote This range can vary significantly between studies.
45
What is the range of extension in the lumbar spine?
Approximately 30 degrees ## Footnote Similar to flexion, this varies across studies.
46
How many degrees of side flexion is possible in the lumbar spine?
Approximately 25 degrees ## Footnote This movement is often difficult to measure accurately.
47
What is the average rotation at each segment of the lumbar spine?
1º at each segmental level, with a mean rotation of 8-12º in each direction ## Footnote Rotation is limited by the orientation of the facet joints.
48
What are the layers of the thoracolumbar fascia?
* Posterior layer * Middle layer * Anterior layer ## Footnote Each layer has distinct attachments and relationships with surrounding muscles.
49
What are the origins of the external oblique muscle?
Muscular slips from the outer surfaces of the lower eight ribs (ribs V to XII) ## Footnote This muscle plays a critical role in trunk movement.
50
What actions do the external oblique muscles perform?
* Compress abdominal contents * Flex trunk * Bend trunk to the same side and turn anterior abdomen to the opposite side ## Footnote They are innervated by the anterior rami of lower six thoracic spinal nerves (T7 to T12).
51
What are the origins of the internal oblique muscle?
* Thoracolumbar fascia * Iliac crest * Lateral two-thirds of inguinal ligament ## Footnote The internal oblique also assists with trunk movements.
52
What is the action of the transverse abdominis?
Compress abdominal contents ## Footnote It is crucial for spinal stability and abdominal pressure.
53
What are the origins of the rectus abdominis?
* Pubic crest * Pubic tubercle * Pubic symphysis ## Footnote This muscle is vital for flexing the vertebral column.
54
What is the function of the quadratus lumborum?
* Muscle of inspiration * Ipsilateral side flexion * Lumbar extension ## Footnote It is innervated by the ventral rami T12-L4.
55
What are the components of the erector spinae group?
* Iliocostalis * Longissimus * Spinalis ## Footnote These muscles assist in maintaining posture and controlling spinal movements.
56
What is the function of the semispinalis thoracics?
Stabilizes the spine ## Footnote It originates from the transverse processes of thoracic vertebrae.
57
What is the role of the multifidus muscle?
Provides stability to the spine ## Footnote It originates from various vertebral structures and inserts into the base of spinous processes.
58
What are the main components of the thoracic cage?
Vertebral column, ribs, intercostal spaces, costal cartilages, sternum ## Footnote These components work together to protect vital organs, provide muscle attachments, and assist in respiration.
59
What is the primary function of the thoracic cage?
Protection of vital organs, provides muscle attachments, assists respiration ## Footnote The thoracic cage plays a crucial role in respiratory mechanics.
60
List the joints of the thoracic cage.
* Costovertebral joints * Costotransverse joints * Costochondral joints * Sternocostal joints * Interchondral joints * Manubriosternal joint * Xiphisternal joint ## Footnote These joints enable movement and flexibility of the thoracic cage.
61
What movements occur during inspiration?
* Increase in anteroposterior (A-P) diameter * Increase in transverse diameter * Increase in vertical diameter ## Footnote These movements are facilitated by the elevation of ribs and descent of the diaphragm.
62
What is the 'Pump Handle' action?
Increase in anteroposterior (A-P) diameter during inspiration ## Footnote This action primarily involves the upper ribs.
63
What is the 'Bucket Handle' action?
Increase in transverse diameter during inspiration ## Footnote This action is primarily associated with the lower ribs.
64
What are the main muscle groups involved in respiration?
* Muscles of the pharynx and larynx * Muscles of the ribcage, thoracic spine and neck * Muscles of the abdominal wall and lumbar spine ## Footnote These muscle groups work together to facilitate breathing.
65
What is the diaphragm?
Dome-shaped sheet of muscle, the principal muscle of respiration ## Footnote It separates the thorax from the abdomen and plays a key role in breathing.
66
What are the origins of the diaphragm?
* Lumbar vertebrae: Left and right Crus and arcuate ligaments * Costal cartilages of ribs 7-10 * Xiphoid process of the sternum ## Footnote These origins provide structural support for the diaphragm.
67
What is the primary nerve supply to the diaphragm?
Phrenic nerve ## Footnote The phrenic nerve is primarily derived from cervical nerves C3-C5.
68
What surfaces does the diaphragm have?
* Thoracic surface * Abdominal surface ## Footnote Each surface is in contact with different organs and structures.
69
What are the three groups of intercostal muscles?
* External intercostal muscles * Internal intercostal muscles * Innermost intercostal muscles ## Footnote These groups have distinct functions in respiration.
70
What is the action of the external intercostal muscles during respiration?
Elevation of the ribcage during inspiration ## Footnote They play a crucial role in increasing thoracic volume.
71
What is the action of the internal intercostal muscles during respiration?
Depression of the rib cage in forced expiration ## Footnote They assist in expelling air from the lungs.
72
What innervates the intercostal muscles?
Anterior rami of spinal nerves T1-T11 ## Footnote This innervation allows for coordinated muscle activity during breathing.
73
Name two accessory inspiratory muscles.
* Sternocleidomastoid * Scalenes These muscles are recruited during increased respiratory demand.
74
What is the role of accessory expiratory muscles?
Engaged during forced expiration to enhance air expulsion ## Footnote These include internal intercostal muscles and abdominal muscles.
75
What is the primary function of the diaphragm during breathing?
Primary muscle of respiration, increases intra-abdominal pressure ## Footnote It is essential for actions like vomiting and childbirth.
76
True or False: Expiration is an active process.
False ## Footnote In normal quiet breathing, expiration is passive.
77
Fill in the blank: The primary inspiratory muscles are the _______ and external intercostals.
Diaphragm ## Footnote These muscles are essential for inhalation.
78
What is the mobility of the thoracic spine compared to cervical or lumbar spines?
Relatively less mobile
79
Which movement has the greatest range in the thoracic spine?
Rotation
80
Which movements are more restricted in the thoracic spine?
Flexion and lateral flexion
81
What is the content of intercostal spaces?
* Intercostal arteries * Intercostal veins * Intercostal nerve * Muscles
82
What are the muscles found in the intercostal spaces?
* External Intercostal * Internal Intercostal * Innermost intercostal
83
What are the distinct features of Rib 1?
Flat, slopes inferiorly, attaches to the manubrium, contains scalene tubercle and 2 separate grooves
84
How does Rib 2 differ from Rib 1?
Like Rib 1 but twice as long
85
What is unique about Rib 10?
Single facet, articulates with its own vertebra
86
What is characteristic of Ribs 11 and 12?
Articulates only with their own vertebra, no tubercles or necks
87
What are the components of typical ribs (3rd-9th)?
* Head * Crest * Neck * Tubercle * Shaft
88
What types of joints exist in the thoracic cage?
* Intervertebral joints * Facet/Zygapophysial joints * Costovertebral joints * Costotransverse joints * Costochondral joints * Interchondral joints * Sternocostal joints * Sternoclavicular joint * Manubriosternal joint * Xiphisternal joint
89
What is the function of the thoracic cage?
* Protection of vital organs * Provides muscle attachments * Assists respiration
90
What are the essential anatomical characteristics of the thoracic vertebrae?
* Body * Pedicles * Vertebral foramen * Articular processes * Costal facets * Transverse processes * Lamina * Spinous processes
91
What distinguishes atypical thoracic vertebrae T1, T10, T11, and T12?
* T1 articulates with a single facet of its own rib * T10/11 lack inferior demi-facets on their bodies * T11 and T12 lack transverse costal facets, articulating only with the heads of their own ribs
92
What is the thoracic rule of 3’s?
* T1-3: SP and TP equal * T4-6: SP ½ level below TP * T7-9: SP 1 level below TP * T10: SP 1 level below TP * T11: SP ½ level below TP * T12: SP and TP equal
93
What type of joint is the costochondral joint?
Primary cartilaginous
94
What type of joints are the sternocostal joints for ribs 2-7?
Synovial plane joints
95
What is the nature of the manubriosternal joint?
Symphysis
96
What is the classification of the xiphisternal joint?
Synchondrosis
97
What are true ribs?
Upper 7 ribs
98
What are false ribs?
Remaining 5 pairs of ribs
99
What are floating ribs?
Ribs 11 and 12
100
What is the primary function of the cervical spine?
Mobility, support, and protection of spinal canal and neural structures
101
How many vertebrae are there in the cervical spine?
7 Vertebrae
102
How many intervertebral discs are present in the cervical spine?
6 Intervertebral discs
103
How many pairs of exiting nerve roots are there in the cervical spine?
8 Pairs of exiting nerve roots
104
What is the average degree of cervical lordosis from Occiput (C0) to C7?
40°
105
Where does most of the cervical lordosis occur?
At the C1-C2 segment
106
What percentage of rotation occurs at the C1-C2 segment?
Approximately 50%
107
What percentage of flexion-extension motion occurs at the occiput (C0)-C1?
Approximately 50%
108
What are the main features of a typical cervical vertebra (C3-C6)?
Vertebral body, Transverse process, Transverse foramen, Anterior/posterior tubercles, Pedicle, Articular pillar, Lamina, Bifid spinous process, Vertebral Foramen
109
What are the atypical cervical vertebrae?
Atlas (C1), Axis (C2), Vertebra Prominens (C7)
110
What shape is the Atlas (C1) vertebra?
Ring shaped
111
What are the articular surfaces of the Atlanto-Occipital Joint (C0-C1)?
C0 - Occipital condyles (convex), C1 - Superior articular facet on the atlas (concave)
112
What type of joint is the Atlanto-Axial Joint (C1-C2)?
Median joint and lateral joints
113
What is Atlanto-Axial Instability?
Can occur due to traumatic, congenital or inflammatory disorder
114
What type of joint is the median Atlanto-Axial Joint?
Synovial pivot joint
115
What is the function of the Transverse Ligament?
Prevent anterior displacement of the Atlas on the Axis
116
What are the attachments of the Cruciform Ligament?
Superior Longitudinal band: Basilar part of the occipital bone to superior margin of the transverse ligament; Inferior Longitudinal band: inferior margin of the transverse ligament to posterior aspect of the body of axis
117
What do Alar Ligaments limit?
Flexion, rotation, and side flexion; prevents distraction of C1 on C2
118
What is the proximal attachment of the Apical Ligament?
Anterior edge of the Foramen Magnum
119
What is the function of the Tectorial Membrane?
Limits flexion; continuation of the PLL
120
What are the proximal and distal attachments of the Ligamentum Nuchae?
Proximal: external occipital protuberance to the foramen magnum; Distal: Spinous process of vertebra C7
121
What is one clinical relevance of the vertebral artery?
Vertebral artery dissection is one of the most common causes of stroke in young patients
122
Fill in the blank: The _______ ligament runs transversely between the lateral masses of the atlas.
Transverse Ligament
123
What are the two distinct areas of the cervical spine?
* Upper Cervical Spine (sub-occipital region) * Lower Cervical Spine (cervical region)
124
What movements are associated with the cervical spine?
* Protraction / Retraction * Flexion / Extension * Lateral Flexion * Rotation
125
Name the groups of muscles in the cervical region.
* Superficial * Deep * Deep Neck Flexors * Sub-Occipital Muscles * Segmental
126
What are the superficial muscles acting on the cervical spine?
* Upper Trapezius * Levator Scapulae * Sternocleidomastoid
127
What are the actions of the Sternocleidomastoid muscle?
* Bilaterally – cervical flexion * Unilaterally – ipsilateral side flexion, contralateral rotation * Accessory muscle of respiration
128
What is the nerve supply for the Sternocleidomastoid muscle?
* Accessory Nerve (Cranial Nerve XI) * Anterior rami C2-3
129
What are the proximal and distal attachments of the Longus Capitis muscle?
* Proximal: Transverse Processes C3-6 * Distal: Inferior Surface occipital bone
130
What actions does the Longus Colli muscle perform?
* Cervical flexion * Slight ipsilateral side flexion * Contralateral rotation
131
What is the primary function of the scalene muscles?
* Elevation of ribs 1+2 * Cervical side flexion * Cervical flexion
132
What are the proximal and distal attachments of the Levator Scapulae muscle?
* Proximal: Upper portion, medial border of scapula * Distal: Transverse processes of C1-C4
133
What actions does the Erector Spinae perform?
* Spinal extension (bilateral) * Spinal side flexion (unilateral) * Cervical rotation (unilateral)
134
What are the attachments for the Splenius Cervicis muscle?
* Proximal: Spinous processes T3-6 * Distal: Transverse Processes C1-3
135
Which muscles are included in the suboccipital muscles?
* Rectus Capitis Posterior Major * Rectus Capitis Posterior Minor * Obliquus Capitis Superior * Obliquus Capitis Inferior
136
What is the nerve supply for all suboccipital muscles?
Posterior Ramus C1
137
True or False: The Sternocleidomastoid muscle has two heads.
True
138
Fill in the blank: The _______ muscle is responsible for cervical extension and ipsilateral rotation.
Splenius Capitis
139
What muscles are considered segmental muscles of the cervical spine?
* Semispinalis * Rotatores * Multifidus * Interspinales * Intertransversarii
140
Which muscle acts as an accessory muscle of respiration?
Sternocleidomastoid
141
What is the primary action of the Rectus Capitis Posterior Major muscle?
* Extends head (bilateral) * Ipsilateral rotation of head (unilateral)
142
What are the actions of the Obliquus Capitis Superior muscle?
* Extends head (bilateral) * Ipsilateral side flexion (unilateral)
143
What are the attachments of the Anterior Scalene muscle?
* Anterior tubercles on transverse processes C3-6 * Scalene tubercle and upper surface of rib 1
144
What are the segmental muscles of the cervical spine?
Cervical flexors, extensors, lateral flexors, rotators ## Footnote Includes muscles like Sternocleidomastoid, Scalenes, Erector Spinae, etc.
145
List the movements of the upper and lower cervical spine.
* Nodding * Protraction * Retraction * Flexion * Extension * Side flexion to right and left * Rotation to right and left ## Footnote Movements occur at various cervical segments.
146
What is the action of the Sternocleidomastoid muscle?
Bilateral - cervical flexion; Unilateral - ipsilateral side flexion, contralateral rotation ## Footnote Accessory muscle of respiration.
147
What are the proximal and distal attachments of the Sternocleidomastoid?
Proximal: Sternal head (upper anterior surface of manubrium), Clavicular head (superior surface, medial 1/3 of clavicle); Distal: Lateral 1/2 superior nuchal line, lateral surface mastoid process.
148
Fill in the blank: The _______ muscle is composed of three separate muscles but often considered as a single unit.
Scalenes
149
What are the actions of the Scalenes muscle group?
* Elevation of ribs 1 and 2 * Cervical side flexion (unilateral) * Cervical flexion (bilateral) ## Footnote Nerve supply varies among anterior, middle, and posterior scalenes.
150
What are the proximal attachments of Longus Capitis?
Transverse Processes C3-6
151
What is the action of the Longus Colli muscle?
Cervical flexion, slight ipsilateral side flexion, contralateral rotation.
152
What is the nerve supply for Longus Colli?
Anterior rami C1-3
153
What are the actions of the Levator Scapulae?
* Elevation of scapula * Cervical side flexion (unilateral) * Cervical extension (bilateral)
154
List the components of the Erector Spinae muscle group.
* Iliocostalis * Longissimus * Spinalis
155
What are the actions of the Splenius Cervicis?
* Cervical extension (bilateral) * Ipsilateral cervical rotation (unilateral)
156
What are the proximal attachments of the Splenius Capitis?
Lower ½ ligamentum nuchae, Spinous Processes C7-T4
157
What are the contents of the anterior triangle of the neck?
* Vessels (carotids) * Nerves (cranial & cervical) * Muscles (Supra- & Infrahyoid)
158
What are the boundaries of the posterior triangle of the neck?
* Anterior margin of Trapezius * Posterior margin of Sternocleidomastoid * Middle third of clavicle
159
Fill in the blank: The thoracic outlet includes three areas: Interscalene Triangle, Costoclavicular Triangle, and _______.
Subcoracoid Space
160
What is the clinical relevance of the thoracic outlet?
Compression of structures can cause thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS)
161
What is the nerve supply for the Upper Trapezius?
Accessory nerve (Cranial Nerve XI)
162
What is the action of the Upper Trapezius on the cervical spine?
Bilateral - Cervical extension; Unilateral - Ipsilateral side flexion.
163
Where does the spinal cord arise from?
The spinal cord arises cranially as a continuation of the brainstem at the Medulla Oblongata. ## Footnote The Medulla Oblongata is responsible for autonomic functions.
164
What is the termination point of the spinal cord in adults?
The spinal cord terminates at the L1/L2 vertebra as the Conus Medullaris. ## Footnote The Conus Medullaris is also known as the medullary cone.
165
What is the function of the Filum Terminale?
The Filum Terminale anchors the spinal cord in place by extending from the tip of the Conus Medullaris to the first coccygeal vertebra (Co1). ## Footnote It is a thin thread made of fibrous tissue.
166
What does the term 'Cauda Equina' refer to?
The Cauda Equina consists of a collection of spinal nerve roots that arise from the distal end of the spinal cord. ## Footnote It includes spinal nerve roots L2-S5 and the coccygeal nerve.
167
What are the three meningeal layers surrounding the spinal cord?
* Dura Mater * Arachnoid Mater * Pia Mater ## Footnote Each layer plays a vital role in protecting the central nervous system.
168
What is the role of the Dura Mater?
The Dura Mater is the most external layer, extending from the foramen magnum to the Filum Terminale, and is tough and fibrous. ## Footnote It contains the epidural space, which contains the internal vertebral venous plexus.
169
What is the function of the Arachnoid Mater?
The Arachnoid Mater is a delicate membrane that sits between the Dura Mater and Pia Mater and contains the cerebrospinal fluid in the subarachnoid space. ## Footnote The subarachnoid space expands distally to form the lumbar cistern.
170
What is the lumbar cistern?
The lumbar cistern is the expanded subarachnoid space located between the end of the spinal cord and the end of the vertebral column, filled with cerebrospinal fluid. ## Footnote It is often accessed for lumbar punctures.
171
What is the primary composition of grey matter in the spinal cord?
Grey matter mainly consists of neuron cell bodies, dendrites, and synaptic contacts. ## Footnote It forms a butterfly shape in the center of the spinal cord.
172
What are the divisions of white matter in the spinal cord?
* Posterior (Dorsal) Column * Lateral Column * Anterior (Ventral) Column ## Footnote White matter consists mainly of myelinated axons.
173
How do afferent and efferent spinal nerves interact with the spinal cord?
Afferent spinal nerves enter via the Dorsal (posterior) root, while efferent spinal nerves exit via the Ventral (anterior) root. ## Footnote This interaction is essential for sensory and motor functions.
174
What is the role of the Denticulate Ligament?
The Denticulate Ligament extends from the pia mater through the arachnoid mater to the dura mater, suspending the spinal cord in the subarachnoid fluid. ## Footnote It prevents lateral movement of the spinal cord.
175
What is the function of the grey commissure?
The grey commissure contains axons that cross to the opposite side of the cord. ## Footnote It plays a role in the communication between the two halves of the spinal cord.
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True or False: The spinal cord occupies the entire length of the vertebral column.
False ## Footnote The spinal cord only occupies two-thirds of the vertebral canal.
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Fill in the blank: The spinal cord segments correspond to _______.
[31 bilaterally paired (mixed) spinal nerves]. ## Footnote Each segment corresponds to a specific vertebra.
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What is a monosynaptic stretch reflex?
A monosynaptic stretch reflex is a reflex action involving a single synapse between a sensory neuron and a motor neuron. ## Footnote This reflex allows for quick responses to muscle stretching.
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What is a neural pathway?
A bundle of axons that connects two or more different neurons
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What are the two main types of neural tracts?
* Ascending tracts * Descending tracts
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Where do ascending tracts run?
From the spinal cord to the brain
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Where do descending tracts run?
From the brain to the spinal cord
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What is decussation in the context of neural tracts?
The crossing over of tracts to the contralateral side
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How many order neurons are in ascending pathways?
Three order neurons
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How many order neurons are in descending pathways?
Two order neurons
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What are the divisions of white matter in the spinal cord?
* Dorsal Column * Lateral Column * Ventral Column
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What are the divisions of grey matter in the spinal cord?
* Dorsal Horn * Lateral Horn * Ventral Horn
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What types of sensory information do ascending tracts carry?
* Conscious sensory tracts * Unconscious sensory tracts
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What are the main conscious ascending tracts?
* Anterior spinothalamic tract * Lateral spinothalamic tract * Dorsal Column Medial Lemniscus Tract * Spinoreticular Tract * Spinotectal Tract
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What sensations does the Dorsal Column-Medial Lemniscus Tract transmit?
* Vibration * Proprioception * Two point discrimination
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What is the function of the Spinothalamic System?
* Crude touch and pressure * Pain and temperature
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What does the Spinocerebellar tract transmit?
Information ipsilaterally between the cerebellum and the body
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What is the role of the Reticular Spinal Tract?
Influences voluntary movement, reflex activity, and muscle tone
194
What are the two types of Pyramidal tracts?
* Corticospinal Tract * Corticobulbar Tract
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What is the main role of the Corticospinal Tract?
Provides voluntary motor function
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Where does the Lateral Corticospinal Tract decussate?
In the Medulla
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What does the Vestibulospinal Tract assist with?
Balance and facilitates activity of the extensor muscles
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What are the two types of Vestibulospinal Tracts?
* Lateral Vestibulospinal Tract * Medial Vestibulospinal Tract
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What is the difference between first-order, second-order, and third-order neurons?
* First-order: Inside the dorsal root ganglions * Second-order: In the spinal cord or brainstem * Third-order: In the Thalamus
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True or False: Descending pathways are classed as a two-order system.
True
201
Fill in the blank: The Dorsal Spinocerebellar tract senses _______ from the lower limbs.
unconscious proprioception
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Fill in the blank: The Anterior Corticospinal Tract decussates in the _______.
Spinal cord
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What does the Rubrospinal Tract facilitate?
Activity of the hand flexor muscles
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What is a neural pathway?
A bundle of axons that connects two or more different neurons
205
What are the two main types of neural pathways in the spinal cord?
* Ascending tracts * Descending tracts
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Where do ascending tracts run?
From the spinal cord to the brain
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Where do descending tracts run?
From the brain to the spinal cord
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What does it mean for tracts to decussate?
They cross over to the contralateral side
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What are the three orders of neurons in ascending pathways?
* First-order neurons * Second-order neurons * Third-order neurons
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How are tracts named?
According to their origin and termination
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What is the structure of white matter in the spinal cord?
Divided into columns or funiculus
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What is the structure of grey matter in the spinal cord?
Divided into horns
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What are the main ascending tracts responsible for carrying?
Sensory information from the periphery
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What types of sensory tracts are there in ascending pathways?
* Conscious sensory tracts * Unconscious sensory tracts
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What sensations does the Dorsal Column-Medial Lemniscus Tract transmit?
* Vibration * Proprioception * Two point discrimination
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What does the Spinothalamic System transmit?
* Crude touch and pressure * Pain and temperature
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What is the role of the Spinocerebellar tracts?
Transmit unconscious proprioception information
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What does the Corticospinal Tract control?
Voluntary motor function
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What are the components of the Pyramidal descending tracts?
* Corticospinal * Corticobulbar
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How many order neurons do descending pathways have?
Two order neurons
221
What is the function of the Reticulospinal Tract?
Influences voluntary movement, reflex activity, and muscle tone
222
What is the function of the Vestibulospinal Tract?
Assists with balance and facilitates activity of the extensor muscles
223
What does the Rubrospinal Tract facilitate?
Activity of the hand flexor muscles
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What is the general structure of descending tracts?
Similar to ascending tracts but in reverse order
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What is the primary role of grey matter?
Processing and relaying sensory information and motor commands
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Fill in the blank: The Dorsal Column is part of the _______ matter.
white
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True or False: The anterior corticospinal tract decussates in the medulla.
False
228
What is a common feature of both ascending and descending pathways?
* Arrangement of first, second, and third order neurons
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What is a neural pathway?
A bundle of axons that connects two or more different neurons
230
What are the two main types of neural tracts?
* Ascending tracts * Descending tracts
231
Where do ascending tracts run?
From the spinal cord to the brain
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Where do descending tracts run?
From the brain to the spinal cord
233
What is decussation in the context of neural tracts?
The crossing over of tracts to the contralateral side
234
How many order neurons are in ascending pathways?
Three order neurons
235
How many order neurons are in descending pathways?
Two order neurons
236
What are the divisions of white matter in the spinal cord?
* Dorsal Column * Lateral Column * Ventral Column
237
What are the divisions of grey matter in the spinal cord?
* Dorsal Horn * Lateral Horn * Ventral Horn
238
What types of sensory information do ascending tracts carry?
* Conscious sensory tracts * Unconscious sensory tracts
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What are the main conscious ascending tracts?
* Anterior spinothalamic tract * Lateral spinothalamic tract * Dorsal Column Medial Lemniscus Tract * Spinoreticular Tract * Spinotectal Tract
240
What sensations does the Dorsal Column-Medial Lemniscus Tract transmit?
* Vibration * Proprioception * Two point discrimination
241
What is the function of the Spinothalamic System?
* Crude touch and pressure * Pain and temperature
242
What does the Spinocerebellar tract transmit?
Information ipsilaterally between the cerebellum and the body
243
What is the role of the Reticular Spinal Tract?
Influences voluntary movement, reflex activity, and muscle tone
244
What are the two types of Pyramidal tracts?
* Corticospinal Tract * Corticobulbar Tract
245
What is the main role of the Corticospinal Tract?
Provides voluntary motor function
246
Where does the Lateral Corticospinal Tract decussate?
In the Medulla
247
What does the Vestibulospinal Tract assist with?
Balance and facilitates activity of the extensor muscles
248
What are the two types of Vestibulospinal Tracts?
* Lateral Vestibulospinal Tract * Medial Vestibulospinal Tract
249
What is the difference between first-order, second-order, and third-order neurons?
* First-order: Inside the dorsal root ganglions * Second-order: In the spinal cord or brainstem * Third-order: In the Thalamus
250
True or False: Descending pathways are classed as a two-order system.
True
251
Fill in the blank: The Dorsal Spinocerebellar tract senses _______ from the lower limbs.
unconscious proprioception
252
Fill in the blank: The Anterior Corticospinal Tract decussates in the _______.
Spinal cord
253
What does the Rubrospinal Tract facilitate?
Activity of the hand flexor muscles

Axial Anatomy (2 decks)

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