Ligament
Denticulate ligaments
Toothed pial attachments connecting the cord to spinal dura
High-yield
Remember their tissue and position: they are specializations of pia, lateral to the cord and between the two sets of roots. They do not form sealed walls dividing cerebrospinal fluid into separate chambers.
Overview
A narrow pial band runs along each side of the spinal cord and sends toothlike extensions toward the dura. These denticulate attachments lie between the ventral and dorsal roots and help support the cord within its surrounding fluid space.
Reference facts
- Attachments
- Pial bands on the lateral cord surfaces connect to dura through triangular extensions passing across the subarachnoid space
- Function
- Help restrain cord displacement while permitting movement; the amount and direction of restraint vary by spinal region
- Clinical point
- Useful for orientation between dorsal and ventral roots during intradural surgery; their presence does not make the cord immobile
Clinical correlation
Their position provides an anatomical landmark during operations within the dural sac, helping distinguish the ventral from the dorsal side of the cord. The attachments and their mechanical strength vary along the spine.
Frequently asked questions
Where do the denticulate ligaments attach?
Pial bands on the lateral cord surfaces connect to dura through triangular extensions passing across the subarachnoid space.
What do the denticulate ligaments do?
Help restrain cord displacement while permitting movement; the amount and direction of restraint vary by spinal region.
Why do the denticulate ligaments matter clinically?
Useful for orientation between dorsal and ventral roots during intradural surgery; their presence does not make the cord immobile.