Variabilities in the formation of the spinal nerve roots
Variabilities in the formation of the spinal nerve roots

Summary/Abstract: Introduction: Work was aimed at pointing out the intraspinal anatomical variations of the nerve roots and their possible participation in radiculopathy. Methods: The anatomical study was performed in 43 cadavers. All intradural and extradural rami communicantes between nerve roots were excised and examined histologically for the presence or absence of nervous tissue. Results: Normotyped plexus formation occurred in 30 cases, variabile formation was observed in 13 cases. Dissection revealed intradural rami communicantes in all cases of the lumbosacral plexus; 28x in cases of cervical roots and thoracic region 4x. Extradural anatomical variations occurred 26x, they were more frequent on left side (13x), bilaterally 4x. In 9 cases the atypical spacing, including 4x in lumbosacral region was observed. In 9 cases rami communicantes between the nerve roots were observed. Multiple extradural rami communicantes were observed 6x, including the simultaneous occurrence of multiple intradural and extradural ones 5x. Conclusions: Study allowed us the identification of intraspinal anatomical variations of nerve roots and their interrelationships throughout the spinal canal with their potential influence on clinical picture. Anatomical preparations revealed a higher incidence of intraspinal intradural variations, particularly between sacral roots and their reliance to the type of plexus.

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