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The Unfixed Spinal Cord: Neuroanatomy Video Lab - Brain Dissections
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The Unfixed Spinal Cord: Neuroanatomy Video Lab - Brain Dissections

Spinal Cord Examination

Overview of the Spinal Cord

  • The speaker introduces a spinal cord specimen from an autopsy, emphasizing its significance for study.
  • A normal spinal cord is presented; the speaker notes its small size and delicate nature, comparing its diameter to that of a little finger.

Characteristics of the Spinal Cord

  • The tissue's softness is highlighted, likening it to gelatin, which underscores its vulnerability to trauma.
  • Subluxation is defined as a sudden misalignment of the spinal column that can compress the spinal cord, potentially leading to paralysis.

Anatomy and Blood Supply

  • Close examination reveals dorsal columns with branches of posterior spinal arteries; these are crucial for blood supply.
  • The anterior spinal artery's role in supplying blood to critical areas like the gray matter and corticospinal tract is discussed.

Consequences of Damage

  • Damage or hypoxia affecting the anterior spinal artery can result in loss of motor control and sensory functions below the injury level.
  • The speaker prepares to open the dura mater for further examination, indicating ongoing exploration of spinal anatomy.

Detailed Structure Observations

  • Dorsal root ganglia are identified alongside emerging dorsal and ventral roots near the cauda equina.
  • The conus medullaris and elongated roots are observed; their emergence at lumbar levels indicates functional significance.

Regeneration Potential

  • Discussion on cauda equina roots highlights their potential for regeneration if damaged but not severed completely.
Video description

The delicate and soft cord partially covered with dura is seen with the anterior and posterior spinal arteries and a description of the structures they supply. The dural sac is opened showing the dorsal and ventral roots in the cauda equina. This is 7 of a series of 26 videos to be viewed in the suggested order or intermixed with other curricular materials. The entire series can be accessed here: https://neurologicexam.med.utah.edu/adult/html/brain-dissections.html The videos may be downloaded in various formats by going here: https://neurologicexam.med.utah.edu/adult/html/download_instructions.html Password Request form for downloadable Neuroanatomy Brain Dissection videos here: https://library.med.utah.edu/neuro-exam/ Autopsy of Unfixed Brain Yefim Lavrentyev, Research Associate, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Utah Specimens Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Utah Produced by Derek Cowan & Suzanne Stansaas, PhD Copyright 2015, Suzanne Stansaas, PhD, Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah