Neurology Lab 2 - Module 2 - Spinal Cord: Page 2 of 3

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Add the spinal nerves.

Using the Highlight tool, identify the cauda equina.

Note the distance that these spinal nerves below L1 travel to exit the vertebral column..

	Why is it safest to perform a lumbar puncture between L2 and L3 or L3 and L4?
Because the spinal cord ends at L1, and a needle placed in the spinal column will separate - rather than puncture - the nerves.

	What is the function of the filum terminale?
It anchors the spinal cord in the spinal column.