Dorsally the posterior funiculi of the spinal cord end in the Tuberculum gracile and in the Tuberculum cuneatum. They contain the Nucleus gracilis and the Nucleus cuneatus where the nerve fibres for epicritical sensibility end.
Ventrally there are the pyramids that are formed by the fibres of the pyramidal funiculi. Below them the pyramid crossing (Decussatio pyramidum) is visible.
Laterally from the pyramids there are the olivary bodies. They contain important nuclei for the coordination of small movements.
Between pyramids and olivary bodies the Nervus hypoglossus (XIIth cranial nerve) exits.
Ventrally median the groove of the Fissura mediana anterior medullae oblongatae is visible.
The Medulla oblongata is the most caudal part of the brain and lies between the midbrain (Mesencephalon) and the spinal cord. Together with the bridge (Pons) it forms the Rhombencephalon and is an important centre for reflexes.
The Medulla oblongata develops out of the Myelencephalon.
The cranial border of the Medulla oblongata is formed by the bridge (Pons). Caudally the Medulla oblongata continues into the spinal cord without a sharp borderline. The end of the Medulla oblongata is defined as the exit point of the first spinal nerve.
