Chap 8: Nervous System - CNS II: Brainstem Flashcards
REGION of the brain that connects the spinal cord
the base of the rest of the brain
BRAINSTEM
functional unit that
spans all three divisions
Reticular Formation
A diffused but interconnected system of
loosely packed nuclei scattered all throughout
brainstem
Reticular Formation
3 ANATOMICAL DIVISONS OF BRAINSTEM
- Medulla Oblongata
- Pons
- Midbrain
Most inferior part of the brainstem and is
continuous with the spinal cord
MEDULLA OBLONGATA
Formed by large descending motor tracts
involved in the conscious control of the
skeletal muscles
Pyramid
Each half of the brain controls the opposite
side of the brain
Pyramidal Decussation
Two round structures that protrudes laterally
in the medulla oblongata
Olive
Line along the middle and extends along the
length of the medulla oblongata
Ventral Median Sulcus
relay information
from cerebrum to cerebellum
Pontine nuclei (Anterior)
Superior to Medulla Oblongata
PONS
Smallest part of the Brainstem
MIDBRAIN
The roof of the midbrain
Tectum
Receives sensory information from visual,
auditory, and tactile sensory system
Superior Colliculi
Constitutes the portion of the midbrain
that is ventral to the tegmentum
Cerebral Peduncle
Involved in hearing and integral part of
auditory pathways in the CNS
Inferior Colliculi
Consists of ascending tracts such as:
spinothalamic tract and medial lemniscus
Tegmentum
Carries sensory information coming from the
spinal cord towards the brain
Tegmentum
Carries motor information from the
cerebrum to the brainstem up to the
spinal card
Cerebral Peduncle
A nuclear mass between tegmentum and
cerebral peduncle
Susbtantia Nigra
Involved in maintaining in muscle tone
and coordinating movements
Susbtantia Nigra
Regulates sleep-wake cycle
RETICULAR ACTIVATING SYSTEM
