Neuroanatomy: Brainstem Structures and Functions

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to the brainstem's anatomy and functions.

Midbrain

The central part of the brainstem that connects the brain to the spinal cord and coordinates sensory and motor information.

Superior Colliculus

A structure in the midbrain involved in vision and eye movement.

Inferior Colliculus

A part of the midbrain that is involved in auditory processing.

Pons

A structure in the brainstem that relays signals between the cerebellum and the cerebrum, playing a crucial role in regulating sleep, respiration, swallowing, bladder control, hearing, equilibrium, taste, eye movement, facial expressions, and posture.

Cranial Nerves

Nerves that emerge directly from the brain and brainstem, responsible for sensory and motor functions of the head and neck.

Spinothalamic Tract

A neural pathway that transmits pain and temperature sensations from the body to the thalamus.

Dorsal-Column Medial-Lemniscus Tract

A sensory pathway that carries signals related to touch, vibration, and proprioception to the thalamus.

Medulla

The lowest part of the brainstem that regulates important functions such as heart rate, breathing, and reflex actions like swallowing.

Decussation

The crossing of nerve fibers from one side of the central nervous system to the other.

Reticular Formation

A network of neurons in the brainstem that plays a key role in regulating wakefulness and sleep-wake cycles.