Topography

Question 1

What is the function of the brainstem?

What structures make up brainstem?

Answer 1

Midbrain, pons, medulla

Has tracts for motor + sensory pathways running between higher + lower centres

Cardio + respiratory centre for control of heart rate and RR

10 (of 12) cranial nerves come from brainstem

Question 2

What is the function of circle of willis?

Answer 2

Supplies arterial blood to cerebral hemispheres

Protective feature against vaso-occlusion of large arteries: Compensatory mechanism ensure brain will not be in deficit of blood

Question 3

What is the cerebral blood supply?

Answer 3

Anterior cerebral- Medial aspect of cerebral hemispheres
Middle cerebral – Lateral aspect of cerebral hemispheres
Posterior cerebral – Inferior aspect of cerebral hemispheres and Occipital lobe

Question 4

What is the venous drainage of the brain

Answer 4

Superficial + deep veins of the brain drain into venous sinuses -> drain into internal jugular veins

Question 5

What are the functions of the cerebellum?

Answer 5

Receives information on

1. ipsilateral proprioception
2. balance + posture (from vestibular nuclei)
3. motor pyramidal tracts

Then maintains balance + co-ordiantion

Question 6

What does cerebellar dysfunction cause?

Answer 6

Ataxia

Question 7

What is the function of the thalamus?

Answer 7

Sensory relay station - contains groups of nuclei

Question 8

What is the function of hypothalamus?

Answer 8

Main visceral control centre - essential for homeostasis

Question 9

What is the homeostatic roles of the hypothalamus?

Answer 9

Regulates:

• body temp
• autonomic control
• food intake
• water balance + thirst
• sleep-wake cycle
• endocrine system