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Human spinal arachnoid septa, trabeculae, and "rogue strands"
1Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
The American Journal of Anatomy
|December 1, 1991
Summary
This study clarifies the structure of human spinal subarachnoid septa and trabeculae, finding minimal anterior connections but extensive posterior networks that vary by spinal region. No age-related changes were observed in these spinal cord connective tissues.
Area of Science:
- Neuroanatomy
- Spinal Cord Morphology
Background:
- Existing literature presents conflicting descriptions of human spinal subarachnoid septa and trabeculae.
- This ambiguity necessitates a detailed anatomical investigation to standardize terminology and understanding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically describe and illustrate the human spinal subarachnoid septa and trabeculae.
- To resolve confusion stemming from varied terminology and depictions in anatomical texts.
Main Methods:
- Dissection and microscopic examination of 62 complete human spinal cords.
- Detailed observation of arachnoid membrane structure, septa, trabeculae, and nerve rootlet connections.
Main Results:
- The adult arachnoid membrane is two-layered with few anterior connections to the spinal cord.
- Posterior connections are sparse in the upper cervical region, increase caudally to the lumbar enlargement, and diminish thereafter.
- Nerve rootlets are interconnected by strands and webs, with numerous 'rogue strands' noted throughout.
- The denticulate ligament exhibits a distinct right-angle fiber arrangement, differing from other arachnoid structures.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a detailed anatomical account of spinal subarachnoid connective tissues, differentiating them from the denticulate ligament.
- Findings aim to standardize nomenclature and understanding of spinal cord support structures.
- No age-related alterations in the number or type of these spinal connective tissue connections were identified.