decussation

[dɪˌkʌˈseɪʃən]

decussation Definition

• 1. the action of crossing or intersecting, especially the arrangement of nerves or fibers in the form of an X
• 2. the point at which two things cross or intersect

Using decussation: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "decussation" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The optic nerve decussation occurs at the chiasm.

• Example

  The decussation of the pyramids is a landmark in the medulla oblongata.

• Example

  The decussation of the medial lemniscus occurs in the lower brainstem.

decussation Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for decussation

• crossing
• intersection
• crossover
• junction

Phrases with decussation

• decussation of the superior cerebellar peduncle

  a crossing of the fibers of the superior cerebellar peduncle in the midbrain

  Example

  The decussation of the superior cerebellar peduncle is located in the upper part of the midbrain.

• decussation of the brachium conjunctivum

  a crossing of the fibers of the brachium conjunctivum in the midbrain

  Example

  The decussation of the brachium conjunctivum is located in the inferior colliculus of the midbrain.

• decussation of the pyramids

  a crossing of the corticospinal tracts in the medulla oblongata

  Example

  The decussation of the pyramids is a landmark in the medulla oblongata.

Origins of decussation

from Latin 'decussare', meaning 'to divide into ten', from 'decem', meaning 'ten'

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Summary: decussation in Brief

'Decussation' [dɪˌkʌˈseɪʃən] refers to the crossing or intersection of nerves or fibers, often forming an X shape. It can also refer to the point at which two things cross. Examples include the optic nerve decussation and the decussation of the pyramids in the medulla oblongata. 'Decussation' is a formal term that can be used interchangeably with 'intersection' or 'crossover.'