Quick Facts
The myelencephalon (aka medulla oblongata) is the lowest portion of the brain stem and is continuous with the spinal cord. Its upper part forms the floor of the fourth ventricle. It contains important centers involved in the control of breathing, blood pressure and heart rate. It is the site of origin of the vestibulocochlear, glossopharyngeal, vagus, accessory and hypoglossal nerves.
Related parts of the anatomy
Learn more about this topic from other Elsevier products
Medulla Oblongata
The medulla oblongata is home to all ascending and descending tracts that carry communications between the brain and the spinal cord.
