Structures · Coverings
Filum terminale
A fibrous strand that continues from the end of the spinal cord and anchors it to the coccyx: an internal part inside the dural sac and an external part beyond it.
SchematicShow in the 3D spine
What the sources say
“The filum terminale (FT) is a fibrous continuation of the spinal cord that anchors the conus medullaris to the coccyx.” Sharma et al. 2026
“Beginning at the tip of the CM, the filum terminale internum (FTI) extends within the caudal extension of the dural sac (DS).” Sharma et al. 2026
“Variations in the termination level of the conus medullaris and morphometry of the FT are clinically relevant in the evaluation of tethered cord syndrome.” Sharma et al. 2026
Read more
- Conus medullaris and cauda equina
Where the spinal cord ends and what fills the canal below it. Why the cord stops near L1, how much that varies, and how the lower nerve roots travel down as the cauda equina.
- Meninges and cerebrospinal fluid
The three membranes around the brain and cord and the fluid between them. What dura, arachnoid and pia are, where cerebrospinal fluid is made and where it goes, and why a lumbar puncture is done low in the back.
For learning only. Levels and sizes vary between people; nothing here describes a particular person or gives medical advice. Sources: Sharma et al. 2026.