Anatomy of the Spinal Cord, Coverings, and Nerves

Abstract

The spinal cord is an elegant structure that serves as a conduit for the transfer of information between the brain and the peripheral nervous system. To enable the reader to understand its complex microstructural anatomy, we have created a detailed yet approachable anatomic reference for clinicians. We review gross and structural features of the spinal cord, its coverings, and nerves while also discussing spinal cord development, microscopic organization, and common anatomic variants. We detail how this anatomy appears on current neuroimaging techniques, with special attention to MR imaging.

Keywords: Dura; Embryology and morphometry; Meninges; Myelography; Spinal MR imaging; Spinal cord; Thecal sac and nerve anatomy.