Brain and spinal cord in situ Practical

Question 1

Why do spinal nerves run obliquely from the spinal cord to the corresponding level of the vertebral column?

Answer 1

During post-natal growth, the vertebral column elongates disproportionately faster to the spinal cord resulting in downwards angulation of spinal nerves.

Question 2

Describe the meningeal layer.s

Answer 2

• Dura mater: fibrous outer membrane that encloses the brain, spinal cord, and cauda equina.
• Arachnoid mater: delicate impermeable middle layer.
• Pia mater: innermost vascular layer of the meninges

Question 3

What is the internal jugular vein formed by?

Answer 3

The union of the sigmoid and inferior petrosal sinuses.

Question 4

REVIEW THE DURAL VENOUS SINUSES

Answer 4

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Question 5

What are the bilateral branches of the basilar artery?

Answer 5

Labyrinthine, anterior inferior cerebellar, and superior cerebellar arteries branch bilaterally from the basilar artery

Question 6

What is the circle of Willis composed of?

Answer 6

Comprised of the anterior communicating arteries, anterior cerebral arteries, internal carotid arteries, posterior communicating arteries, and posterior cerebral arteries.