Intervertebral foramen

Definition

The intervertebral foramen is an opening between adjacent vertebrae through which nerves and blood vessels pass. It allows for the exit of spinal nerves from the spinal column to various parts of the body.

Related terms

Vertebrae:

The individual bones that stack to form the vertebral column, providing structural support and protection to the spinal cord.

Spinal Nerves:

Nerves that emerge from the spinal cord through the intervertebral foramen to transmit signals between the brain and the rest of the body.

Spinal Cord:

The main pathway for information connecting the brain and peripheral nervous system, housed within the vertebral column