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Morphometric Relationship between the Cervicothoracic Cord Segments and Vertebral Bodies
Ji Hoon Kim1, Chul Woo Lee, Kwon Soo Chun
1Department of Neurosurgery, Soonchunhyang University Hospital, Seoul, Korea.
Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society
|November 8, 2012
Summary
This study mapped cervical and thoracic nerve root origins relative to vertebrae. Findings improve diagnosis and surgical planning for spinal cord and vertebral body pathologies.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Spinal Cord Research
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Understanding the precise anatomical relationship between spinal cord nerve roots and vertebral bodies is crucial for accurate diagnosis and surgical interventions.
- Variations in these relationships can lead to misdiagnosis and complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the morphologic characteristics between vertebral bodies and the cervical and thoracic spinal cord regions.
- To analyze the anatomical relationship between nerve root exit points and corresponding vertebral bodies.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 16 adult cadavers (12 male, 4 female; mean age 57.9 years).
- Examination of the posterior root entry zone and its relation to vertebral bodies at cervical and thoracic levels.
Main Results:
- The vertical span of the posterior root entry zone ranged from 10-12 mm.
- Rootlet lengths varied from 5.9 mm (C3) to 14.5 mm (C8).
- Lower thoracic nerve roots (T3-T12) showed a relationship with the vertebral body two segments superior; C6 and C7 nerve roots related to segments one level superior.
Conclusions:
- Accurate anatomical knowledge aids in diagnosing spinal cord and vertebral body pathologies.
- Improved understanding facilitates better therapeutic planning and reduces surgical complications.
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