Fibrous ring(s)

The fibrous ring (lat. anulus fibrosus) is a ring-shaped structure of dense connective tissue that performs a supporting function in the human body.

Fibrous rings occur in two main locations:

1. Fibrous ring of the intervertebral disc (lat. anulus fibrosus disci intervertebralis). It consists of collagen fibers arranged in concentric rings surrounding the nucleus pulposus of the disc. The fibrous ring provides a strong connection between the vertebrae and shock absorption during movements in the spine.

2. Fibrous rings of the heart (Latin annuli fibrosi cordis) are ring-shaped structures of collagen fibers that surround the openings of the aorta and pulmonary artery at the base of the heart. They prevent these openings from expanding when the ventricles of the heart contract.

Thus, the annulus fibrosus plays an important role in providing strength and stability to various anatomical structures. Their damage can lead to dysfunction of the corresponding organs and the development of pathological conditions.

Fibrous annulus(s)

The annulus fibrosus, also known as the anulus fibrosus, is a structure consisting of ring-shaped collagen fibers that form the peripheral part of the intervertebral disc. The term "annulus fibrosus" is also used to refer to the ring-shaped connective tissue formations surrounding the openings of the aorta and pulmonary trunk.

1. Intervertebral discs are amorphous structures located between the vertebrae of the spinal column. They consist of two main parts: the nucleus pulposus, located inside, and the peripheral annulus fibrosus. The annulus fibrosus consists of collagen fibers that form a ring structure around the nucleus pulposus. This structure gives the disc strength and stability.

2. Additionally, the term annulus fibrosus is also used in the context of cardiac anatomy. In this case, the fibrous rings are ring-shaped connective tissue formations surrounding the openings of the aorta and pulmonary trunk. These structures support the valves, keeping them firmly in place and preventing backflow of blood.

The annulus fibrosus performs important functions in the body. In the case of intervertebral discs, it provides support and protection to the spinal column and also absorbs the shock and stress that the spine is subjected to during movement. In addition, the annulus fibrosus helps maintain the position of the nucleus pulposus within the disc.

In cardiac anatomy, the annulus fibrosus plays a role in maintaining the structure and function of the valves. They prevent them from falling out or deviating, ensuring the correct direction of blood flow. Thanks to the fibrous rings, the valves remain firmly attached and work effectively during systole and diastole of the cardiac cycle.

However, the annulus fibrosus can also become the target of various pathological processes. For example, degeneration or damage to the annulus fibrosus of the intervertebral disc can lead to prolapse of the nucleus pulposus and the development of disc herniation. In the case of fibrous rings of the heart, changes in their structure can lead to improper functioning of the valves and the development of heart disease.

In conclusion, the annulus fibrosus(es) are structures that play an important role in supporting and protecting various organs and systems of the body. The annulus fibrosus of the intervertebral disc provides strength and stability to the disc, and the annulus fibrosus of the heart maintains the proper functioning of the valves. They are key elements of the anatomy and physiology of the human body, and pathological changes in them can lead to various diseases. Understanding the role and structure of the annulus fibrosus is important for medical professionals in diagnosing and treating related conditions.