anulus fibrosus of intervertebral disk

Introduction

The ring of fibrous cartilage forming the circumference of the intervertebral disk. It surrounds the nucleus pulposus, which is prone to herniation when the anulus fibrosus is compromised.

More general terms

• cartilage
• ligament

Additional terms

• nucleus pulposus, nucleus gelatinosus or vertebral pulp

Component of

• intervertebral disk