Body System3 connections · 1 source

Spinal Column

The bony structure composed of vertebrae, intervertebral discs, ligaments, and muscles that encases and protects the spinal cord.

Key Facts

It forms a protective bony tube around the delicate spinal cord.
Vertebrae develop during embryonic growth and must fuse properly to prevent congenital defects.
Abnormal development of the spinal column can leave the spinal cord exposed or compressed.

The defect is isolated to the bony structures of the spine.

Incomplete closure of the spinal column vertebrae defines spina bifida.

The spinal column physically protects the spinal cord, a core component of the CNS.