Segmental medullary artery

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Segmental Medullary Artery

The Segmental Medullary Artery is a type of artery that supplies blood to the medulla oblongata, a part of the brain responsible for autonomic (involuntary) functions ranging from vomiting to sneezing. The segmental medullary artery is also known as the Artery of the Bulb.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "Segmental Medullary Artery" is derived from the Latin words "segmentum" meaning "a piece cut off", "medulla" meaning "marrow" or "pith", and "arteria" meaning "windpipe, artery". The term "Artery of the Bulb" is derived from the Latin word "bulbus" meaning "bulb", referring to the bulb-like shape of the medulla oblongata.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The Segmental Medullary Artery is a branch of the vertebral artery. It is one of the arteries that supply blood to the medulla oblongata, along with the anterior spinal artery and the posterior inferior cerebellar artery.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

The Segmental Medullary Artery is clinically significant as it is involved in certain medical conditions such as lateral medullary syndrome (also known as Wallenberg's syndrome), a neurological disorder affecting the medulla oblongata. This syndrome can occur when there is a blockage in the blood supply to the medulla oblongata, often due to a stroke.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Segmental medullary artery Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD