NEURAL CANAL Meaning and
Definition
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The neural canal refers to a hollow cavity or tunnel that runs along the length of the vertebral column in animals, including humans. It serves as a protective enclosure for the delicate spinal cord, which is a bundle of nerves that transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body. The neural canal is formed by the central opening of each vertebra, which align when the vertebrae are stacked together.
The primary function of the neural canal is to safeguard the spinal cord from external damage or injury. It is surrounded by a thick bony structure, known as the vertebral arch, composed of several components, including the lamina and pedicles. These create a sturdy and protective barrier that shields the spinal cord from mechanical trauma.
The neural canal is filled with cerebrospinal fluid, a clear liquid that acts as a cushion to further protect the spinal cord. This fluid helps absorb shocks and distributes the weight and pressure evenly throughout the spinal canal. In addition to protection, the canal also provides a pathway for the passage of blood vessels, nourishing the spinal cord and providing oxygen and nutrients essential for its functioning.
In summary, the neural canal is a hollow cavity formed by the vertebral column that houses and protects the spinal cord. It acts as a shield against external forces, while also facilitating the passage of cerebrospinal fluid and blood vessels.
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(1) A canal formed by an upgrowth of folds of the ectoderm on the surface of the embryonic axis in front of the primitive streak; it is the rudiment of the cerebrospinal axis; (2) spinal canal, the canal of the vertebral column, containing the spinal cord.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for NEURAL CANAL
- beural canal
- meural canal
- jeural canal
- heural canal
- nwural canal
- nsural canal
- ndural canal
- nrural canal
- n4ural canal
- n3ural canal
- neyral canal
- nehral canal
- nejral canal
- neiral canal
- ne8ral canal
- ne7ral canal
- neueal canal
- neudal canal
- neufal canal
- neutal canal
Etymology of NEURAL CANAL
The word "neural" comes from the Latin word "neurōn", which means "sinew", "tendon", or "nerve". It derives from the Greek word "neuron" (νεῦρον), meaning "string", "nerve", or "sinew".
The word "canal" has its origins in the Latin word "cānālis", which means "pipe", "groove", or "channel". It ultimately comes from the Greek word "kanna" (κάννα), referring to a "reed" or "cane".
When combined, the term "neural canal" refers to the channel or passage within the spinal column (vertebral column) through which the spinal cord passes.
