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Method to Visualize and Analyze Membrane Interacting Proteins by Transmission Electron Microscopy
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Method to Visualize and Analyze Membrane Interacting Proteins by Transmission Electron Microscopy

Published on: March 5, 2017

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Transmission electron microscopy and histological analysis of the peridural membrane

David G M Tiernan1,2, Aiden T Devitt3,4

  • 1Department of Orthopaedics, University Hospital Galway, Newcastle Road, Galway, Ireland. davidtiernan@rcsi.ie.

Irish Journal of Medical Science
|December 17, 2018
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

The peridural membrane, a spinal canal layer, has a high collagen to elastin ratio, unlike the ligamentum flavum. This composition suggests it acts as a protective barrier against spinal cord compression from disc herniation.

Area of Science:

  • Spinal anatomy and histology
  • Biomaterials science

Background:

  • The peridural membrane, present since 1904, lines the epidural space and connects to the posterior longitudinal ligament.
  • Its histological and ultrastructural characteristics remain incompletely understood.
  • It is often encountered but typically overlooked during lumbar decompression surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the histological and ultrastructural composition of the peridural membrane with the ligamentum flavum.
  • To elucidate the structural properties and potential function of the peridural membrane.

Main Methods:

  • Tissue samples of the peridural membrane and ligamentum flavum were obtained from five patients undergoing lumbar decompression for herniated discs.
  • Samples were analyzed using transmission electron microscopy.
  • Histological staining included Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) for morphology, trichrome for collagen content, and Verhoeff-Van Gieson for elastin content.

Main Results:

  • The peridural membrane exhibited densely packed collagen fibers, interspersed elastin fibers, and scarce fibroblasts, resembling the dura mater.
  • The ligamentum flavum presented a higher elastin-to-collagen ratio with a looser collagen arrangement and a larger extracellular matrix.
  • Significant differences in fiber arrangement and composition were observed between the two tissues.

Conclusions:

  • The peridural membrane is a distinct and significant spinal canal structure.
  • Its high collagen-to-elastin ratio and dense structure suggest a protective role for the spinal cord.
  • This membrane may mitigate the compressive effects of intervertebral disc herniation.
Keywords:
Epidural membraneMeningeal membranesPeridural membranePosterior longitudinal ligamentSpinal surgery

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