Meninges

The meninges (/məˈnɪndʒiːz/, singular: meninx (/ˈmiːnɪŋks/ or /ˈmɛnɪŋks/), from Ancient Greek: μῆνιγξ mēninx “membrane”, adjectival: meningeal /məˈnɪndʒəl/) are the membranes that envelop the central nervous system.

The meninges consist of three layers: the dura mater, the arachnoid mater, and the pia mater.

see Leptomeninge.

The spinal meninges specifically enclose the spinal cord and stretch from the brainstem down to the filum terminale.

Meninges Function.

Meningiomas are by far the most common tumors arising from the meninges.

The meninges are involved in various pathologies and are often directly or indirectly severed during surgical procedures, especially the dura mater. This can pose a real challenge for the surgeon, as a proper reconstruction of the meninges is important to prevent complications such as Cerebrospinal fluid fistula (CSF).

see Dural closure.