Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

decussation

Noun

/dɪˈkʌs.eɪ.ʃən/

Definition

The action of crossing over or intersecting, particularly in relation to structures or pathways in the nervous system.

Examples

The decussation of the optic nerves occurs at the optic chiasm.
This decussation ensures that visual information from the left field of vision is processed in the right hemisphere of the brain.
In neuroscience, studying the decussation of fibers helps to understand the patterns of neural pathways.

Meaning

In anatomy, decussation refers to the point at which nerve fibers cross over to the opposite side of the body or brain. It is crucial for the communication and coordination of sensory and motor functions.