TOPOGRAPHIC AND ANATOMICAL FEATURES OF SPINAL GANGLIA AT THE 18-22 WEEKS OF FETAL ONTOGENESIS

The aim is to obtain new data on the features of the anatomy and topography of the sensitive ganglia of the spinal nerves at the 18-22 weeks fetuses of prenatal ontogenesis.

Material and methods. The research was carried out on the sectional material of 40 human fetuses of both genders of the 18–22 weeks development obtained as a result of abortion on social indications from fetal collection of the Department. The methods of macro-microscopic preparation, N.I. Pirogov technique of variously-planed sections, histotopographic method with van Gieson’s staining were used in the study.

Results. It was revealed that the sensitive ganglia of the spinal cord were fully formed at 18-22 weeks of development. The cervical ganglia are located extraforaminally, have the oval shape and a horizontal position. The size of the ganglia increases from C₁ to C₈, the first cervical ganglion differs from the rest in shape and size. Thoracic sensitive ganglia are located intraforaminally, have a round shape. The first thoracic ganglion is similar in shape and size to the cervical ganglia. The lumbar ganglia are located inside the vertebral canal, have an elongated oval shape and increase from L₁ to L₅. The sacral and coccygeal ganglia are similar in shape and location to the lumbar ganglia, but differ by small size.

Conclusions. The obtained data on the anatomy and topography of fetus sensitive ganglia at 18-22 weeks of development can be useful for ultrasound diagnostics doctors, neonatologists and fetal surgeons.

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