Definition

Noun: * A major groove in the brain: The central sulcus is a deep, prominent fold or furrow on the outer surface of each cerebral hemisphere of the brain. It is a key anatomical landmark that runs in a generally vertical direction. * A structural and functional boundary: Its primary function is to separate the frontal lobe (located at the front of the brain) from the parietal lobe (located behind it). This separation is crucial as these lobes are responsible for different functions.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The central sulcus is one of the most identifiable features in neuroanatomy.
  • Motor functions are primarily located in the frontal lobe, just anterior to the central sulcus.
  • The somatosensory cortex lies in the parietal lobe, directly posterior to the central sulcus.

Advanced Usage

• "The central sulcus of Rolando": This is the full anatomical name, honoring the Italian anatomist Luigi Rolando. It is often used in formal medical and scientific literature.
  • The precentral gyrus, forming the anterior bank of the central sulcus of Rolando, is essential for voluntary movement.

Variants and Related Words

• Sulcus (plural: sulci): A general term for any groove or furrow on the surface of the brain. The central sulcus is a specific, major sulcus.
• Fissure: A very deep sulcus. The central sulcus is sometimes described as a fissure due to its depth and significance.
• Precentral gyrus: The ridge of brain tissue immediately in front of (anterior to) the central sulcus, housing the primary motor cortex.
• Postcentral gyrus: The ridge of brain tissue immediately behind (posterior to) the central sulcus, housing the primary somatosensory cortex.

Synonyms

• Fissure of Rolando: A direct synonym using the eponym.
• Rolandic fissure: Another common synonym using the eponym.

Related Terms (Not Phrasal Verbs or Idioms)

• Frontal lobe: The brain region separated and defined by the anterior boundary of the central sulcus.
• Parietal lobe: The brain region separated and defined by the posterior boundary of the central sulcus.
• Cortical landmark: A descriptive term for the central sulcus, as it is used by neurosurgeons and radiologists to navigate the brain's geography.

Noun

1. a brain fissure extending upward on the lateral surface of both hemispheres; separates the frontal and parietal lobes