VERTEBRAL CANAL

Vertebral Canal

Definition: The vertebral canal is a longitudinal cavity in the spinal column that encloses the spinal cord and its coverings.

Contents of the Vertebral Canal:

1. Spinal cord
2. Meninges (dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater)
3. Spinal nerves
4. Blood vessels (arteries and veins)
5. Cerebrospinal fluid

Meninges of the Spinal Cord:

1. Dura Mater: The outermost meningeal layer that surrounds the spinal cord.
2. Arachnoid Mater: The middle meningeal layer that is loosely attached to the dura mater.
3. Pia Mater: The innermost meningeal layer that closely adheres to the spinal cord.

Internal Vertebral Plexus of Veins:

1. The internal vertebral plexus of veins is a network of veins that surrounds the spinal cord.
2. It is formed by the union of the anterior and posterior spinal veins.
3. The internal vertebral plexus of veins drains into the external vertebral plexus of veins.

Applied Anatomy:

1. The internal vertebral plexus of veins is an important landmark for the lumbar puncture procedure.
2. It plays a crucial role in the drainage of cerebrospinal fluid from the spinal cord.
3. The internal vertebral plexus of veins is also involved in the spread of infections from the spinal cord to other parts of the body.