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Fig. 7 Sagittal T2 MRI for
L1-L2 disc [ 5 ]
2.1.2 Vertebrae
A vertebra (plural: vertebrae) is a bone with speci
c structure that supports and
protects the spinal cord. A typical vertebra consists of two segments: Anterior
(front) and posterior (back). The anterior part of the vertebra is the body while the
posterior, which is known also as the vertebral (neural) arch, includes: the vertebral
foramen, a pair of pedicles and a pair of laminae, and supports seven processes
[four articular, two transverse, and one spinous (aka neural spine)].
2.1.3 Other Structures
In addition to the main structures within the vertebral column, there are few other
structures including.
Nerves: The spinal cord hangs inside a bony ring through the vertebral column
that is made up of millions of nerve
fibers. The spinal cord extends down to the L2
vertebra. Below L2, a bundle of nerves named as Cauda Equina hangs down in what
is known as the Thecal Sac. Two large nerves branch off the spinal cord, one from
each side passing through the neural foramina of each vertebra. These spinal nerves
group together to form the main nerves that go to the organs and limbs. The nerves of
the lumbar spine (Cauda Equina) go to the pelvic organs and lower limbs [ 88 ].
Connective tissues: They are the
fibrous connections that hold the cells of the
body together. The ligaments are strong connective tissues that attach bones
together. There are many long ligaments that connect on the front and back sections
of the vertebrae. The anterior longitudinal ligament runs lengthwise down the front
of the vertebral bodies. Two other ligaments run full-length within the spinal canal.
The posterior longitudinal ligament attaches on the back of the vertebral bodies.
The Ligamentum Flavum is a long elastic band that connects to the front surface of
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