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Related Concept Videos

Brainstem: Control Centers of Medulla01:21

Brainstem: Control Centers of Medulla

The medulla oblongata is a crucial part of the brainstem responsible for controlling various autonomic and involuntary functions. It contains several nuclei, including the olivary, cuneate, gracile, and solitary nuclei.
Olivary Nucleus
The olivary nucleus, or inferior olivary nucleus, is located within the ventrolateral part of the medulla oblongata. It is primarily involved in motor coordination and motor learning. The olivary nucleus receives input from the spinal cord, cerebellum, and motor...
Physiology of Respiration II: Neurogenic Control of Respiration01:22

Physiology of Respiration II: Neurogenic Control of Respiration

The neurogenic control of respiration coordinates various neural networks and pathways to regulate breathing rate and depth, meeting the body's oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange requirements. This system adapts to physiological and environmental conditions, ensuring optimal breathing patterns.
Central Control
The brainstem is the primary site of central control, hosting respiratory centers:
Neural Control of Respiration01:18

Neural Control of Respiration

The neural regulation of respiration is a meticulously coordinated process primarily controlled by the respiratory centers located within the brainstem. These centers, composed of specialized neurons, transmit nerve impulses that control the contraction and relaxation of our respiratory muscles.
Respiratory Centers in the Brainstem
Two primary areas comprise the respiratory center: the medullary respiratory center in the medulla oblongata and the pontine respiratory group in the pons. The...
Physiological Control of Respiration01:23

Physiological Control of Respiration

Introduction
Breathing, a seemingly passive process, is regulated by the respiratory center in the brainstem. This center coordinates the involuntary control of respirations, which means it occurs without conscious effort, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted pattern.
Regulation of Ventilation
The body maintains ventilation by monitoring levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), oxygen (O2), and hydrogen ion concentration (pH) in the arterial blood. Among these factors, the level of CO2 plays a crucial...
Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Inspection01:27

Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Inspection

Physical assessment of the respiratory tract through inspection is a crucial step in understanding the patient's respiratory health. It provides insights into the functioning of the respiratory system, the musculoskeletal structure, and even the patient's nutritional status. This comprehensive approach involves observing several vital aspects: chest configuration, breathing patterns, respiratory rates, skin color, and use of accessory muscles.
Chest Configuration
The chest configuration can...
Brainstem01:19

Brainstem

The brainstem, located inferior to the brain and superior to the spinal cord, serves as a bridge between the cerebrum and the spinal cord. It plays a vital role in relaying information and controlling critical life functions. It comprises three primary regions: the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata.
The Midbrain
The midbrain is located beneath the diencephalon and connects the cerebrum with the lower parts of the brain. The cerebral peduncles are prominent midbrain structures that house the...

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A Murine Model of Cervical Spinal Cord Injury to Study Post-lesional Respiratory Neuroplasticity
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Respiratory function after lesions in medulla oblongata.

Dieter Woischneck1, Thomas Kapapa, Hans E Heissler

  • 1Klinik für Neurochirurgie, University Hospital, Ulm, Germany. dieter-heinrich.woischneck@uniklinik-ulm.de

Neurological Research
|February 14, 2009
PubMed
Summary

Bilateral lesions in the caudal medulla oblongata cause cessation of spontaneous respiration in brain injury patients. Preserving this area allows for adequate respiration, even in a coma.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Neurology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Traumatic brain injury and intracerebral hemorrhage can impact respiratory function.
  • Understanding the neural control of respiration is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between brain lesions seen on cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spontaneous respiration.
  • To identify specific brain regions critical for maintaining respiratory drive.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective study involving 250 subjects with traumatic brain injury or intracerebral hemorrhage.
  • Cranial MRI was performed early after injury.
  • MRI findings were correlated with clinical assessment of spontaneous respiration.

Main Results:

  • Bilateral lesions of the caudal medulla oblongata were associated with the absence of spontaneous respiration in 13 subjects (5.2%).
  • In subjects without bilateral caudal medulla oblongata lesions, spontaneous respiration was consistently present.
  • Unilateral lesions did not abolish spontaneous respiration.

Conclusions:

  • The caudal medulla oblongata contains autonomous respiratory centers essential for maintaining respiration.
  • Bilateral damage to this area leads to respiratory failure.