Problem Set 9
94. Describe the spinal cord and its extension.
The spinal cord is protected by vertebra column, meninges and cerebrospinal fluid. It extends
from the brain stem to the first lumbar vertebra where it off
...
Problem Set 9
94. Describe the spinal cord and its extension.
The spinal cord is protected by vertebra column, meninges and cerebrospinal fluid. It extends
from the brain stem to the first lumbar vertebra where it officially terminates as the conus
medullaris. The cauda equina is the extension of the cord beyond L1is a collection of nerve
roots. It runs to the coccyx.
95. What is the function of the spinal cord and how does it accomplish this?
The spinal cord's extensions is the means by which all impulses travel between the brain and the
rest of the body by the way of the 31 spinal nerves.
96. List the 3 protections for the spinal cord.
The spinal cord is protected by vertebra column, meninges and cerebrospinal fluid
97. Describe the 3 spinal cord meninges and their associated tissues and fluids.
1) Spinal dural (mater)sheath, the outer meninx, a single layer. It is separated from the vertebral
column by a cushioning fat-filled epidural space. 2) The space between the middle arachnoid and
3) inner pia mater meninges is filled with cerebrospinal fluid.
98. Why is a spinal tap performed in the subarachnoid space inferior to L1.
Due to the cord ending at L1, the cerebrospinal fluid subarachnoid space inferior to this is the
location for spinal taps or diagnostic testing.
99. Identify the parts of the spinal cord shown in the diagram below.
1) Anterior horn
2) Posterior horn
3) Gray commissure
8 = Anterior median fissure
9 = Posterior median sulcus
10 = Central canal
11 = Anterior root
12 = Posterior root
100. Describe the composition of the gray matter of the spinal cord.
The gray matter of the cord is composed of multipolar neurons and supporting cells.
101. Describe the composition of the white matter of the spinal cord.
Composed of myelinated and un-myelinated nerve fibers.
102. Describe the function of the white matter of the spinal cord.
The white matter fibers of the spinal cord are composed of ascending tracts that proceed up to
the brain carrying sensory inputs and descending tracts that proceed down to (or within) the cord
carrying motor outputs.
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