Spinal Cord and PNS: Function and Gross Anatomy

Question 1

What is the overall function of the SPINAL CORD and PNS?

Answer 1

It’s a 2-way conduction pathway. Initiate, complete reflex

Question 2

Where does the SPINAL CORD begin/end?

Answer 2

It extends from FORAMEN MAGNUM to L1/L2 vertebrae

Question 3

What is the CONUS MEDULLARIS and where is it found

Answer 3

It is a cone shaped structure at the end of the SPINAL CORD

Question 4

What do the CERVICAL and LUMBAR ENLARGEMENTS do?

Answer 4

They widen where nerves to limbs arise

Question 5

How many pairs of SPINAL NERVES are there?

Answer 5

31 pairs; 21 enter/exit by VENTRAL/DORSAL ROOTS, 10 sacral and coccygeal nerves extend from CONUS MEDULLARIS in CAUDA EQUINA

Question 6

What is the CAUDA EQUINA and where is it found?

Answer 6

It’s a bunch of nerves at the base of the SPINAL CORD, looks kind of like the tail of a hores, hence EQUINA

Question 7

What 4 things help to protect the SPINAL CORD?

Answer 7

1) VERTEBRAE
2) SPINAL DURAL SHEATH
3) ARACHNOID MATER
4) PIA MATER

Question 8

Which structure extends from CONUS MEDULLARIS to anchor the SPINAL CORD to the coccyx?

Answer 8

The FILUM TERMINALE