Digestly

Dec 15, 2024

Vessels and nerves of the vertebral column: Anatomy

Osmosis from Elsevier - Vessels and nerves of the vertebral column: Anatomy

The vertebral column plays a vital role in protecting the spinal cord and providing structural support, flexibility, and range of motion. To maintain these functions, it requires an adequate blood supply and innervation. The arteries of the vertebrae arise from larger parent arteries, varying by the vertebral column's level. In the neck, these include the vertebral and ascending cervical arteries; in the thorax, the posterior intercostal arteries; in the abdomen, the subcostal and lumbar arteries; and in the pelvis, the iliolumbar, lateral sacral, and median sacral arteries. These arteries give rise to periosteal, equatorial, and spinal branches that supply different parts of the vertebrae. Venous blood drains through spinal basivertebral and intervertebral veins, forming plexuses along the vertebral column. The internal vertebral venous plexuses are divided into anterior and posterior sections, while the external plexuses are similarly divided. The vertebral column is innervated by small meningeal branches from mixed spinal nerves, except for the facet joints, which are innervated by articular branches from the medial branches of the posterior rami of spinal nerves. These nerves supply various structures, including the periosteum, ligaments, and blood vessels.

Key Points:

  • The vertebral column requires a complex blood supply from various arteries depending on its level, including vertebral, ascending cervical, and lumbar arteries.
  • Venous drainage occurs through internal and external vertebral venous plexuses, which are crucial for maintaining blood flow and pressure.
  • Innervation is primarily through recurrent meningeal nerves, with facet joints receiving innervation from articular branches of the posterior rami.
  • The periosteal, equatorial, and spinal branches of arteries supply different parts of the vertebrae, ensuring adequate nutrient delivery.
  • Understanding the vascular and nerve supply of the vertebral column is essential for diagnosing and treating spinal disorders.
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