Review Note
Last Update: 02/12/2025 11:28 AM
Current Deck: Anatomy::RC::Back::Pol Compilation::4th quiz
PublishedCurrently Published Content
Front
The following statements regarding herniation
of an intervertebral disc are correct EXCEPT:
A. Generally herniates posteriorly
B. In the lumbar region, it usually affects the
spinal nerve whose number corresponds to the
vertebra below
C. It is a portion of the nucleus pulposus that
actually herniates
E. It may press on the spinal card
A contributing factor to the herniation may be
excessive compression of the posterior regions
of the disc
of an intervertebral disc are correct EXCEPT:
A. Generally herniates posteriorly
B. In the lumbar region, it usually affects the
spinal nerve whose number corresponds to the
vertebra below
C. It is a portion of the nucleus pulposus that
actually herniates
E. It may press on the spinal card
A contributing factor to the herniation may be
excessive compression of the posterior regions
of the disc
Back
E. It may press on the spinal card
A contributing factor to the herniation may be
excessive compression of the posterior regions
of the disc
A contributing factor to the herniation may be
excessive compression of the posterior regions
of the disc
Explanation:
While herniation of an intervertebral disc can cause significant issues, it is unlikely to directly press on the spinal cord in most cases, particularly in the lumbar region. Here's why:
- Location of Herniation:
- In the lumbar region, where disc herniations are most common, the spinal cord terminates at L1-L2. Below this level, the spinal canal contains the cauda equina (a bundle of nerve roots), not the spinal cord itself. Therefore, herniation typically compresses nerve roots, not the spinal cord.
- Posterior-Lateral Herniation (A):
- Most intervertebral disc herniations occur posteriorly or posterolaterally, due to the thinner posterior longitudinal ligament and lack of reinforcement in that direction.
- Nerve Root Affected (B):
- In the lumbar region, a herniated disc generally affects the nerve root corresponding to the vertebra below. For example, a herniation of the L4-L5 disc will compress the L5 spinal nerve.
- Herniating Component (C):
- A portion of the nucleus pulposus herniates through a weakened or torn annulus fibrosus, causing the condition.
- Contributing Factors (E):
- Excessive compression or repetitive stress, particularly on the posterior regions of the disc, weakens the annulus fibrosus, making herniation more likel
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