Intervertebral Disc

Description

Spine and intervertebral disc anatomy in sagittal and cross-sectional views of healthy, degenerate, and herniated discs. Other potential disc changes are also shown in the sagittal view.

(A) Anatomy of the intervertebral disc (IVD) consisting of a gelatinous and highly hydrated core (nucleus pulposus) encompassed by a fibrous lamellar ring (annulus fibrosus). The superior and inferior connection to the vertebral bodies is formed by a layer of hyaline cartilage; the cartilaginous endplate (CEP). Blood vessels in the vertebral bodies end before the CEP. Passive diffusion of oxygen, nutrients, and metabolites occurs through the CEP. (B) Picture of a young healthy (left) and a degenerated (right) IVD demonstrating the less hydrated NP and lower order of structure due to degeneration

Terminology

• English: Intervertebral discs
• Latin: Discus intervertebralis

Description

• Fibrocartilaginous pad located between the bodies of adjacent vertebrae

Structure

• Anulus fibrosus: outer ring of fibrous cartilage surrounding an inner core
• Nucleus pulposus: gelatinous core sandwiched by cartilage endplates

Function

• Forms a fibrocartilaginous joint between the bodies of adjacent vertebrae
• Binds the vertebral column together
• Provides shock absorption
• Prevents friction between vertebrae

Vascular Supply

• No blood supply

Innervation

• Sinovertebral nerves

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Clinical Significance

• Lumbar Radiculopathy
• Herniated Disc
• Degenerative Disc Disease

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See Also

• Back Pain Main
• Physical Exam Back
• Back Anatomy Main

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