Spinal cord

Spinal Cord

The structure that exits the foramen magnum, extends through the vertebral canal, and terminates between T12 and L3.

Meninges

Three layers of connective tissue covering the brain and spinal cord, consisting of the dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater.

Dura Mater

The outermost layer of the meninges.

Arachnoid Mater

The middle layer of the meninges.

Pia Mater

The innermost layer of the meninges.

Subarachnoid Space

The space between the arachnoid and pia mater where cerebrospinal fluid flows.

Epidural Space

The space outside the dura mater, between the dura mater and the vertebral wall.

Epidural Injection

A procedure performed in the epidural space for pain relief or anesthesia.

Lumbar Puncture

A procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid or relieve pressure, typically performed between L3-L4 or L4-L5.

Lumbar Cistern

The fluid-filled space that continues through the sacrum beyond the termination of the spinal cord.

Laminectomy

A surgical procedure involving the removal of the lamina to relieve pressure or access the spinal cord.

Lumbar Enlargement

The enlargement of the spinal cord at its distal portion, giving off nerves that innervate the lower limbs.

Cervical Enlargement

The enlargement of the spinal cord that gives off nerves innervating the upper limbs.

Conus Medullaris

The termination point of the spinal cord.

Filum Terminale

A small strand of pia mater extending from the conus medullaris, translating to "terminal thread."

Cauda Equina

A bundle of nerve roots located distal to the conus medullaris, translating to "horse's tail."

Gray Matter

The deep part of the spinal cord, shaped like an H, containing unmyelinated axons.

White Matter

The outer part of the spinal cord that surrounds gray matter, containing myelinated axons.