Connection lost. Please refresh the page.
Online
Get help How to study Login Register
Ready to learn?
Pick your favorite study tool

Epidural space

The term "epidural space" commonly denotes the area between the dura mater, the outermost layer of the spinal meninges, and the inner surface of the vertebral canal. However, the term is also used to describe the extradural space of the cranial cavity, which typically exists as a potential space. Thus, to distinguish between the two spaces, they are sometimes referred to as the spinal epidural space and cranial epidural space for the spinal and cranial regions, respectively.

The spinal epidural space is located between the tissues that line the inner surface of vertebral canal and the dura mater. This space is not continuous with the cranial epidural space. It extends cranially to the foramen magnum and is closed where the spinal dura merges with the rim of the foramen magnum. Caudally, it reaches down to the sacral hiatus and is sealed by the posterior sacrococcygeal ligament, which covers the sacral hiatus.

The spinal epidural space contains fat and loosely packed connective tissue which cushions the dural sac, venous plexuses, small arterial branches, spinal nerve roots, lymphatics, and fibrous bands called meningovertebral ligaments that attach the dura mater to the inner lining of the vertebral canal, anchoring it. This space serves as the injection site for anesthetic agents during childbirth and surgery to alleviate pain, a procedure known as epidural anesthesia.

The cranial epidural space is also called the dura-cranial interface. It lies between the inner surfaces of the cranial bones and the outer (endosteal) layer of the dura mater. It is typically not present, but can form under certain pathological circumstances such as when high pressure arterial bleeding from damaged meningeal vessels forces the endosteal layer to detach from the cranium, forming an epidural hematoma.

Terminology English: Epidural space
Synonym: Peridural space

Latin:
Spatium epidurale
Synonyms: Spatium epidurale spinale, spatium peridural spinale, cavitas epiduralis
Definition Refers to the space between the spinal dura mater and the internal surface of the vertebral canal, but is also be used to describe the potential extradural space of the cranial cavity

Learn more about the spinal cord and its coverings in the following study unit:

Epidural space: want to learn more about it?

Our engaging videos, interactive quizzes, in-depth articles and HD atlas are here to get you top results faster.

What do you prefer to learn with?

“I would honestly say that Kenhub cut my study time in half.” – Read more.

Kim Bengochea Kim Bengochea, Regis University, Denver
© Unless stated otherwise, all content, including illustrations are exclusive property of Kenhub GmbH, and are protected by German and international copyright laws. All rights reserved.

Register now and grab your free ultimate anatomy study guide!