Medical term of the week: Sulcus centralis

The central sulcus, also known as the central groove, is a major structure in the human brain that plays an important role in the separation and function of the brain's lobes.

etymology

The term "sulcus" comes from Latin and means "furrow" or "trench". "Centralis" refers to the central location of this structure in the brain. This name underlines the central role of the sulcus centralis in the anatomical organization of the brain.

Anatomical relevance

The central sulcus runs across the surface of the brain and separates the frontal lobe from the parietal lobe. It is one of the most prominent sulcus in the human brain and plays a crucial role in organizing motor and sensory functions. The precentral gyrus, located immediately in front of the central sulcus, is responsible for controlling voluntary movements.

Clinical significance

In clinical practice, the central sulcus is an important landmark in neurosurgical interventions. Changes or abnormalities in this area can indicate neurological diseases such as strokes or tumors. The precise location of the central sulcus is crucial for planning and performing operations on the brain.

Did you know?

The central sulcus is present not only in humans but also in many other mammals. In the evolutionary development of the brain, its structure has proven to be extremely efficient in enabling the complex processing of sensory and motor information.

Animus Medicus tip

Interested in the detailed anatomy of the brain? Our "Brain Anatomy - Sagittal Section" Poster provides a clear and concise representation of the sulcus centralis and other important structures. Ideal for study and practice!