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Image #29-2
Serial transverse sections of the brain stem
Medulla oblongata.
This section is 3 mm. above the previous level and was cut through the upper limit of the decussation of the pyramids. At this level the funiculus gracilis is terminating rapidly in the nucleus gracilis (2). The surface eminence known as the clava overlies this area. Lateral to this the funiculus cuneatus is invaded from its anterior aspect by the nucleus cuneatus (3). The rounded nucleus of the spinal tract of the trigeminal nerve (12) is seen farther laterally. The spinal tract itself lies superficial to the nucleus. The anterior (ventral) gray columns are becoming broken up into the reticular formation of the medulla at this level. The pyramid on the right is well defined, that on the left is entering the decussation (4).