How Do You Spell PYRAMIDAL DECUSSATION?

1. Pyramidal decussation refers to the crossing over or crossing of nerve fibers in the medulla oblongata region of the brain. It is a crucial anatomical structure that plays a significant role in the coordination and control of voluntary movements in the body.

   The pyramidal decussation is primarily formed by the corticospinal tracts, which are motor pathways containing nerve fibers that originate in the motor cortex of the brain and descend down the spinal cord. At the level of the medulla oblongata, approximately 90% of these nerve fibers cross over to the opposite side of the brain, creating the pyramidal decussation.

   This crossing over of nerve fibers at the pyramidal decussation is essential because it allows for the precise and coordinated control of movements on the opposite side of the body. For example, nerve fibers originating from the left motor cortex will cross over at the pyramidal decussation to control movements on the right side of the body, and vice versa.

   Damage or abnormalities in the pyramidal decussation can result in motor deficits, such as weakness or loss of voluntary movements on one side of the body. These deficits can manifest as conditions like hemiplegia or hemiparesis, where one side of the body is severely weakened or paralyzed.

   In conclusion, the pyramidal decussation is a vital anatomical structure in the medulla oblongata that controls and coordinates voluntary movements through the crossing over of nerve fibers from the motor cortex. Its proper functioning is crucial for normal motor control and any abnormalities can lead to motor deficits and impairments.

2. Decussatio pyramidum.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PYRAMIDAL DECUSSATION

The word "pyramidal" derives from the Latin word "pyramis", meaning "pyramid", which in turn has its roots in the Greek word "puramis", meaning "wheat cake". It's believed that the term "pyramidal" was initially used to describe a conical structure resembling a pyramid.

The term "decussation" comes from the Latin word "decussare", meaning "to cross in the shape of an X". It originates from the Latin word "decussis", meaning "ten", as it was observed that the nerves cross each other in the form of an X.

When the two words are combined, "pyramidal decussation" refers to the crossing of nerve fibers that occur in the pyramidal tracts within the brainstem.