This image presents the structures of the brainstem and the midbrain. The medulla oblongata looks like an extension of the spinal cord, but is quite different.t It contains neural networks involved in a multitude of fundamental sensory and motor functions. Signals for these functions enter and leave the medulla from the spinal cord and by cranial nerves 8,9, and 10.

The brainstem is the posterior stalk-like part of the brain, it connects the cerebrum with the spinal cord, In the human brain, It is composed of the midbrain, the pons, and the medulla oblongata, It plays an important role in the regulation of cardiac and respiratory function, consciousness, and the sleep cycle.

Front view of the medulla, pons, and mesencephalon of a full term human fetus.

open medulla segment

BRAINSTEM: GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS Components: The brainstem consists of (from above downward): Midbrain (continuous with the cerebral hemisphere above) Pons Medulla (continuous with the spinal cord below) Location: The brainstem is located in posterior cranial fossa Relations: Above, midbrain is continuous with the cerebral hemisphere. Below, medulla is continuous with the spinal cord. Posteriorly, the pons and medulla are separated from the cerebellum by the fourth ventricle. The fourth…

Your brainstem connects your brain to your spinal cord. It sits at the bottom of your brain and includes the midbrain, pons and medulla oblongata. Your brainstem sends messages to the rest of your body to regulate balance, breathing, heart rate and more.

Pons and medulla oblongata