Intervertebral foramen

Intervertebral Foramen

The Intervertebral Foramen (pronunciation: in-ter-ver-te-bral fo-ramen) is a crucial anatomical structure in the vertebral column.

Etymology

The term "Intervertebral Foramen" is derived from the Latin words "inter" meaning between, "vertebra" referring to the bones of the spine, and "foramen" meaning opening or hole.

Definition

The Intervertebral Foramen, also known as the neural foramen, is a small opening located between every pair of vertebrae in the spine. These foramina allow for the passage of nerve roots, blood vessels, and lymphatic vessels from the spinal cord to the rest of the body.

Function

The primary function of the Intervertebral Foramen is to provide a conduit for the spinal nerves and vessels. It protects these structures while allowing them to connect the spinal cord with the rest of the body.

Related Terms

Vertebrae: The individual bones that stack to make the spine or vertebral column.
Spinal nerves: These nerves emerge from the spinal cord and pass through the intervertebral foramen to reach the rest of the body.
Neural Foramen: Another term for the intervertebral foramen.
Spinal Cord: The part of the central nervous system that is housed within the vertebral column.