Nerve Roots Visible in a Section of the Spinal Cord

Description

Presented as a 3D cross section of the spinal cord, the gray matter forms a central butterfly with posterior (dorsal) horns projecting dorsally and anterior (ventral) horns positioned ventrally, surrounded by white matter columns (posterior, lateral, and anterior funiculi). Fine dorsal rootlets carrying sensory afferents approach the cord posterolaterally and enter at the posterolateral sulcus to terminate in the posterior horn, while ventral rootlets emerge from the anterolateral sulcus in line with anterior horn motor neurons. Yellow peripheral nerve roots extend laterally on both sides, tracing the proximal course from the cord surface toward the mixed spinal nerve. Clear left to right symmetry. Short and readable. This section-based view helps anchor the functional map of a spinal segment: dorsal equals sensory entry, ventral equals motor exit, and the white matter columns convey long tracts between segments. It is the orientation you need when teaching dermatomes and myotomes, or when explaining why a dorsal root lesion produces sensory loss without lower motor neuron weakness, whereas ventral root compromise yields weakness with preserved sensation. The arrangement also parallels surgical anatomy, where dorsal root entry zones can be targeted in DREZ procedures for refractory deafferentation pain, and where ventral root involvement features in radiculopathy patterns. Use this asset in neuroanatomy lectures on spinal cord lamination and rootlet organization, in neurology or neurosurgery texts discussing radiculopathy and root avulsion, and in patient-facing education that distinguishes dorsal versus ventral roots during spine imaging review. It also fits well in exam prep materials that pair cord cross sections with clinical vignettes on sensory level, reflex arcs, and anterior horn cell disease. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.