What is the dura?

• A. A soft inner membrane of the brain
• B. A tough, fibrous membrane that covers the brain and spinal cord
• C. A type of cerebrospinal fluid
• D. A section of the spinal column

Answer: (B)

The dura, or dura mater, is a tough, fibrous membrane that serves as one of the protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It acts as a durable barrier, guarding the brain and spinal structures from injury and infection. The dura mater is the outermost of the three meningeal layers, which also include the arachnoid mater and pia mater. Its robust composition helps maintain the shape of the brain and provides a surface for blood vessels and nerves to run along. Understanding the role of the dura is crucial for surgical technicians, as they must be aware of the anatomical structures involved in neurosurgery, including the protective membranes surrounding the central nervous system.