Spinal Cord

Question 1

Where and what is the purpose of the denticular ligament?

Answer 1

Triangular ligament located in between ventral and dorsal roots

It suspends the spinal cord in the center by attaching to the dura. Acts sort of like a pillow to prevent the cord from hitting bone (vertebrae)

*its a continuation of the pia mater

Question 2

What covers the spinal cord?

Answer 2

Dura (tough) mater (outer)

Arachnoid (spider/webs) mater

Pai (delicate) mater

• CSF between arachnoid and pia mater
• CSF protects spinal cord by suspending it and minimizing forces

Question 3

At what section does spinal cord end?

Answer 3

At about L1

• take CSF below L1 when diagnosing CSF diseases
• nerves still come out from corresponding vertebrae at L2-S5

Question 4

Name the important structures at the ending of the spinal cord

Answer 4

Conus medularis: tapering terminis of the spinal cord

Filum terminale: continuation of pia mater

Cauda equina: ventral and dorsal roots

Question 5

In a L4/5 disc herniation, which nerves are affected and why?

Answer 5

L4 nerve not affected

L5 nerve affected bc of the steep angle of nerves, herniated discs impinge on the nerves passing below that segment

Question 6

What are the arteries of the spinal cord?

Answer 6

Posterior spinal artery (paired)

Anterior spinal artery (single on midline)

*travel up and down spine, receiving supply at several places

Question 7

What is the patellar tendon reflex?

Answer 7

To test efficacy of L2,3,4

Quads extends/hamstring flex

Direct sensory to motor pathway/ synapse onto cell body for motor neuron/ reflex from stimulation

No signal to brain

Interferon inhibits hamstring from flexing?