Neuroanatomical Overview to Understand the Complexities of Spinal Cord Function

The spinal cord is a crucial component of the central nervous system that facilitates communication between the brain and other parts of the body. Accurate localization of lesions and interpretation of clinical manifestations necessitate an in-depth comprehension of spinal cord anatomy. This chapter starts with a detailed overview of the protective meningeal layers surrounding the spinal cord, including the dura materDura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia materPia mater, which support and protect the spinal cord. The spinal cord features cervical, lumbar, and sacral enlargements responsible for limb innervation. The cervical enlargement supplies nerves to the upper limbs, while the lumbar and sacral enlargements supply nerves to the lower limbs. The spinal cord comprises outer white matterWhite matter and inner gray matterGray matter. The outer white matter includes ascending and descending tracts, transmitting sensory and motor information between the brain and the body. The inner gray matterGray matter comprises nerve cell bodies, responsible for processing sensory information and generating motor output. The central canal, filled with cerebrospinal fluidCerebrospinal fluid (CSF), is encompassed by gray matter featuring dorsal, ventral, and lateral horns. A comprehensive comprehension of spinal cord anatomy, internal and external, is crucial for interpreting pathological findings, clinical manifestations, and lesion localization. The chapter emphasizes the significance of a thorough knowledge of the spinal cord's anatomy for effective treatment of spinal cord injuries and understanding spinal cord function.