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A fibrous-appearing structure associated with the chromosomes in mitosis. A long thin structure. A structure formed in cells during division to which the chromosomes are attached by their centromeres. Collection of fibers seen in a dividing cell that function in chromosome movement in mitosis and meiosis. The fibers radiate from two poles and meet in…

Lumbar puncture. To remove fluid from the spinal canal using a needle and syringe. A diagnostic procedure that involves inserting a needle into the spinal canal to remove a sample of cerebrospinal fluid for analysis.  

Nerves arising from the spinal cord. There are 31 pairs. One of the 31 pairs of nerves which lead from the spinal cord and govern mainly the trunk and limbs. Any of 31 pairs of nerves connected to the spinal cord. Each spinal nerve divides into branches, some serving the voluntary nervous system, others the…

A bony channel formed by the vertebral bodies and neural arches that contains and protects the spinal cord. The hollow channel running down the back of the vertebrae, containing the spinal cord. The anatomical void or empty area located within the spinal column, which houses both the spinal cord and the cerebrospinal fluid.  

Saddle block. Analgesia produced by injecting the spinal cord with an anaesthetic. Blockage in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid within the spinal canal.  

A mild form of spina bifida in which there is an oblique slit in one or several of the vertebral structures.  

A cystic swelling or tumorlike sack that contains spinal fluid but no nerve tissue.  

A malformation of the spinal column in which a tumorlike sack is produced on the infant’s back. The most severe type of spina bifida, characterized by increased intracranial pressure, meningocele, hydrocephalus, paraplegia, and the inability to control urinary bladder or rectum. A congenital defect in the walls of the spinal canal caused by a lack…

A developmental defect of the spinal column. A serious condition in which part of the spinal cord protrudes through the spinal column. Congenital defect in the structure of the spinal column characterized by an open area around the nerve trunk leaving it unprotected and subject to infection or injury. Spina bifida is a neural tube…

A muscle that encircles a duct, tube, or opening in such a way that contraction constricts the opening. A muscle that encircles a duct, tube, or orifice, thus controlling its opening.