Which structures pass through the foramen magnum?

The foramen magnum is a significant opening at the base of the skull that serves as a conduit between the cranial cavity and the spinal canal. Several critical anatomical structures traverse this opening.

The ascending and posterior spinal arteries are vital for supplying blood to the posterior aspects of the spinal cord. Their passage through the foramen magnum allows them to reach and provide adequate perfusion to these regions.

Vertebral arteries, which supply blood to the brain and the upper spinal cord, also pass through the foramen magnum. They ascend through the cervical vertebrae and enter the cranial cavity at this point, contributing to the blood supply of the posterior circulation of the brain.

The medulla oblongata, which is part of the brainstem, is another crucial structure that passes through the foramen magnum. It controls various autonomic functions such as breathing and heart rate and is connected to the spinal cord through this opening.

Since all three structures—the ascending and posterior spinal arteries, vertebral arteries, and medulla oblongata—pass through the foramen magnum, it is accurate to state that they collectively traverse this structure. Therefore, the correct answer reflects that all of these important anatomical elements share this pathway.