Radicular artery

Radicular artery (also known as medullary artery) is a type of artery that supplies the spinal cord. The term "radicular" is derived from the Latin word "radicula", which means "small root". This is in reference to the artery's function of supplying the root-like structures of the spinal cord.

Anatomy

The radicular arteries originate from various arteries in the body. They include the vertebral artery, ascending cervical artery, deep cervical artery, intercostal artery, and lumbar artery. These arteries branch off to form the radicular arteries, which then supply the spinal cord.

The radicular arteries are divided into two types: anterior and posterior. The anterior radicular arteries supply the anterior portion of the spinal cord, while the posterior radicular arteries supply the posterior portion.

Function

The primary function of the radicular arteries is to supply blood to the spinal cord. They do this by branching off into smaller arteries, which then supply the various parts of the spinal cord. This ensures that the spinal cord receives a sufficient supply of oxygen and nutrients, which are necessary for its function.

Clinical significance

Damage to the radicular arteries can lead to serious medical conditions. For example, a blockage in a radicular artery can cause spinal cord infarction, which is a stroke that occurs in the spinal cord. This can lead to paralysis and other serious complications.

See also

• Spinal cord
• Artery
• Stroke

References

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