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Bassett Collection of Stereoscopic Images of Human Anatomy

Thoracic meninges, spinal cord and nerve roots dissected in relation to vertebral column

Transverse section of body of eighth thoracic vertebra illustrating relations of blood vessels, nerves and ligaments

Image #219-2

KEYWORDS: Central nervous system, Thoracic region, Vertebral column.

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Thoracic meninges, spinal cord and nerve roots dissected in relation to vertebral column
Transverse section of body of eighth thoracic vertebra illustrating relations of blood vessels, nerves and ligaments
The thoracic part of the spinal cord has been exposed by a laminectomy. The upper thoracic vertebra have been completely removed for this view, including the upper half of the body of the eighth vertebra. The interrelations of the internal and external vertebral venous plexuses and the basivertebral vein (5) are visible. The specimen is viewed from above.
  1. Dorsal roots thoracic nerve IX
  2. Spinal cord
  3. Dura mater and arachnoid
  4. Pedicle (arch of vertebra) Th. VIIl (partially removed)
  5. Upper pointer: Anterior internal vertebral venous plexus Lower pointer: Basivertebral vein
  6. Body of vertebra Th. VIII (partly cut away)
  7. Ganglion of sympathetic trunk
  8. Greater splanchnic nerve
  9. Anterior longitudinal ligament
  10. Intervertebral disc Th. VII- VIII (remnant)
  11. Denticulate ligament
  12. Superior articular process vertebra Th. IX
  13. Dorsal branch thoracic nerve VIII
  14. Spinal ganglion
  15. Ventral branch thoracic nerve VIII
  16. Intervertebral foramen
  17. Posterior intercostal vein
  18. Parietal pleura
  19. Posterior intercostal artery VII
  20. Hemiazygos vein