medulla (ma duel' uh)

• It is the caudal-most part of the brainstem and contains many sensory (ascending) and motor (descending) tracts. The pyramid is an example of the latter. Structures that are linked with the cerebellum (e.g. olive) and part of the reticular formation are also in the medulla.

• Certain groups of neurons in the reticular formation control respiration, and the cranial nerve important for maintaining an open airway and controlling heart rate is located here.

• Thus, if the integrity of the medulla is compromised, vital functions are compromised and death often results.

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Wallenberg Syndrome