Anatomical studies on the spinal cord segments of the impala (Aepyceros melampus)

The anatomy of the spinal cord segments was studied and recorded for the impala. The root attachment lengths were greatest at C3, T10 and L3 cord segment levels in the respective regions. As to the root emergence length the greatest lengths were observed at C7, T10, L5 and S1 cord segment levels respectively. The interroot interval was longest at C2, T8 and L1 segments respectively. The longest cord segments were C2, T13, L2 and S2 segments. The widest cord segments of their respective regions were C7, T1, L5 and S1 cord segments. As to segment volume C3, T13, L2 and S1 were the most voluminous cord segments in the respective cord regions. Statistical analysis revealed a high correlation among all of the study parameters suggesting a high degree of multicolinearity. Gross anatomical relationships concerning the location of the spinal cord segments with respect to the vertebrae were studied. The cord segments C1, T1-T4 and L1-L3 were within their vertebral limits. In the impala the spinal cord terminated at the midlevel of S4 vertebra.