Anatomical Structures and Functions

Anatomical Structures and Functions

• Joints: Fibrous joints connect bones with sutures, syndesmoses, and gomphoses. Cartilaginous joints encompass synchondroses and symphyses. Synovial joints, featuring a joint capsule and synovial fluid, are the most common type, facilitating free movement. These joints include those of the shoulder, hip, knee, and elbow. Different types exist—uniaxial, biaxial, and multiaxial.
• Nerve Innervation: Somatic and visceral nerves exit the central nervous system (CNS). Sympathetic nerves originate from the thoracic and lumbar regions (T1-L2/3), often synapsing on paravertebral or prevertebral ganglia. Parasympathetic nerves arise from cranial nerves (III, VII, IX, X) and the sacral region (S2-4). Cranial nerves provide specific innervation to various structures.
• Vertebral Column and Foramina: The spinal cord traverses the vertebral foramen. Spinal nerves exit through the intervertebral foramen. The vertebral artery, vein, and sympathetic nerves pass through the transversarium foramen.

Musculoskeletal System

• Back Muscles: Extrinsic muscles, superficial to intrinsic muscles, are innervated by anterior rami (upper extremities) or cranial nerve XI (trapezius). Intrinsic muscles, deep to extrinsic muscles, are innervated by dorsal rami of spinal nerves and maintain posture and spinal ROM.

Nervous System

• Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Pathways: Sympathetic pathways exit the central nervous system at T1-L2/3, synapse in paravertebral ganglia, and innervate various organs and tissues. They also connect to prevertebral ganglia and, consequently, visceral structures. Parasympathetic pathways exit the central nervous system at cranial nerves III, VII, IX, and X and the sacral region (S2-4). They control visceral function and organ activity. The peripheral nervous system functions in organ sensation & response
• Cranial Nerves: Different cranial nerves (e.g., CN III, VII, IX, X, and S2-4) are connected to specific ganglia for visceral function. The parasympathetic system influences structures in the head and neck, and abdomen via these nerves.

Other Important Anatomical Details

• Pelvis and Perineum: Pelvic and perineal compartments have various components, including bladder, uterus, ovaries, prostate, and anal canal. Muscles such as the pelvic diaphragm, and the levator ani, separate these compartments.
• Breast Lymphatics: Lymphatic drainage from the breast predominantly flows to axillary lymph nodes (pectoral, central, and apical). Blood supply to the breast comes from the internal thoracic/internal mammary artery. Blood vessels drain away from the breast via the axillary vein and internal thoracic vein, linking to larger vessels in the thorax.
• Thoracic Cavity: The thorax (chest cavity) houses the heart (pericardium), lungs (pleura), and other vital structures. The pleural and pericardial cavities are within the thoracic cavity overall. Abdominal and pelvic cavities are distinct below the diaphragm.
• Head and Neck: The neurocranium provides protection to the brain. The viscerocranium includes the structures of the face and jaws. Structures such as the parotid gland and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) are vital to this area.
• Eye and Orbital Structures: The orbit encloses and protects the eye. Associated structures (e.g., rectus muscles) and sinuses help in its function.

Este quiz explora le structuras e functiones anatomical del corpo humano, includente le classificationes de articulos e nervios. Examina como le nervios somatic e visceral interagisce con le systema nervos central. Participa pro testare tu cognoscentias in anatomia!