Question 1

Which structure anchors the spinal cord to the coccyx and is a fibrous extension of the pia mater?

Accepted Answer

Filum terminale

Question 2

A patient receives an epidural injection for pain relief during childbirth. In which space is the anesthetic administered?

Accepted Answer

Epidural space

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the function of the dorsal root of a spinal nerve?

Accepted Answer

Carries sensory information into the spinal cord

Question 4

The cervical and lumbar enlargements of the spinal cord exist because:

Accepted Answer

They contain more neurons to innervate the limbs

Question 5

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the cauda equina?

Accepted Answer

It is a bundle of nerve roots extending below the conus medullaris

Question 6

A lesion that destroys the ventral root of a spinal nerve will result in:

Accepted Answer

Loss of motor function only

Question 7

Which meningeal layer is in direct contact with the spinal cord?

Accepted Answer

Pia mater

Question 8

Which nerve is the major motor branch of the cervical plexus and innervates the diaphragm?

Accepted Answer

Phrenic nerve

Question 9

A patient presents with stabbing pain radiating down the posterior thigh and leg, likely due to a herniated disc compressing which nerve?

Accepted Answer

Sciatic nerve

Question 10

Which of the following spinal nerve groups does NOT form a plexus?

Accepted Answer

Thoracic nerves (T2-T11)

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the organization of white and gray matter in the spinal cord?

Accepted Answer

Gray matter is central, white matter is peripheral

Question 12

If the dorsal root ganglion is damaged, what is the most likely functional deficit?

Accepted Answer

Loss of sensory input from the body region served

Question 13

Which of the following is the correct order of meningeal layers from superficial to deep?

Accepted Answer

Dura mater, arachnoid mater, pia mater

Question 14

Which nerve of the brachial plexus supplies the extensor muscles of the arm, forearm, and hand?

Accepted Answer

Radial nerve

Question 15

A lumbar puncture (spinal tap) is typically performed below which vertebral level to avoid damaging the spinal cord?

Accepted Answer

L3

Question 16

Which of the following equations correctly represents the number of spinal nerve pairs in each region?

Accepted Answer

$$8 + 12 + 5 + 5 + 1 = 31$$

Question 17

Which region of the spinal cord contains lateral gray horns, and what type of neurons are found there?

Accepted Answer

Thoracic and lumbar regions; visceral motor neurons

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the function of the gray commissure in the spinal cord?

Accepted Answer

Allows communication between the two sides of the spinal cord

Question 19

Which nerve is the largest in the body and is a major branch of the sacral plexus?

Accepted Answer

Sciatic nerve

Question 20

A patient has lost both sensory and motor function in a specific region of the body. Which structure is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Spinal nerve proper

Spinal Cord and Spinal Nerves: Structure, Function, and Organization

Study Guide - Practice Questions