Medulla Spinalis (Noun)
Meaning
A major part of the central nervous system which conducts sensory and motor nerve impulses to and from the brain; a long tubelike structure extending from the base of the brain through the vertebral canal to the upper lumbar region.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The medulla spinalis is encased in the spinal column and extends from the brain down to the lower back, playing a crucial role in the transmission of signals between the brain and the rest of the body.
- Damage to the medulla spinalis can have severe consequences, including partial or total paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the injury.
- In vertebrates, the medulla spinalis acts as a reflex center, controlling automatic functions such as breathing, heart rate, and digestion, without needing to send signals all the way to the brain.
- A cross-section of the medulla spinalis reveals its complex structure, consisting of a series of gray and white matter layers that facilitate the transmission of nerve impulses.
- Medical professionals use advanced imaging techniques to visualize the medulla spinalis in patients suspected of having spinal cord injuries or conditions, allowing for precise diagnosis and treatment.