Learning Objectives for
Dissection of the Spinal Cord

The dissection of the spinal cord requires a laminectomy, so please be careful using the tools.


Basic concepts:
You may wish to review the basic concepts for the back at this time. The link opens a new window which you will need to close to return to this page.


Specific Learning Objectives:

  1. Recall the composition of the vertebral column.
  2. Describe the relationship of the atlas and axis to the skull.
  3. Relate somite formation to segmentation of sclerotomes, myotomes, dermatomes, and the terms epimere and hypomere.
  4. Describe the anatomy of the spinal cord and its meninges.
  5. Explain the location, extent and contents of extradural, subdural and subarachnoid spaces.
  6. Compare and contrast a spinal nerve with a root and a ramus.
  7. Explain the composition of peripheral nerves.
  8. Describe the development of the vertebral column with respect to the spinal cord. What is the cauda equina?
  9. Summarize the basic procedure for a lumbar puncture including the spaces and layers penetrated by the needle during the procedure.
  10. Illustrate how damage to specific levels of the vertebral column relate to different levels of the spinal cord.
  11. Identify anatomic structures in radiographic studies including X-ray, CT scans and MRI films.


Difficult parts of the dissection:

  1. When making the laminectomy, do not go too far laterally. If necessary, you can always enlarge the opening, but it is hard to put tissues back that have already been cut and removed.
  2. To expose a dorsal root ganglion, follow the nerve roots where they exit and carefully chisel away the bone. If you are careful, you will also expose the dorsal and ventral rami of the nerve. See Step 2.

John A. McNulty, Ph.D.
Last Updated: Jan 3, 2000
Created: Nov 22, 1999