Neural arch

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Neural Arch

The neural arch is a key anatomical feature in the vertebral column of vertebrates, including humans. It is a bony structure that encloses and protects the spinal cord and nervous system. The neural arch is a critical component of the vertebra, which is the individual bone unit of the vertebral column.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The neural arch is composed of two parts: the pedicles and the laminae. The pedicles are short, stout processes that extend from the posterior aspect of the vertebral body. The laminae are flat plates of bone that extend from the pedicles to meet in the midline, forming the roof of the neural arch.

The neural arch also includes several processes for muscle attachment and articulation with adjacent vertebrae. These include the spinous process, transverse processes, and articular processes.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the neural arch is to protect the spinal cord and nerves. It forms a bony canal, known as the vertebral canal, through which the spinal cord passes. The neural arch also provides attachment points for muscles and ligaments, contributing to the stability and mobility of the vertebral column.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Abnormalities or injuries to the neural arch can lead to various medical conditions. For example, spondylolysis is a defect in the neural arch that can lead to back pain and spinal instability. Spina bifida is a congenital disorder where the neural arch fails to close completely, exposing the spinal cord.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD