Previous studies concerning the level of termination of the human spinal co
rd have been carried out in unselected cadavers. We have used magnetic reso
nance imaging to determine this level of termination, and that of the dural
sac, in normal living subjects. We found a wider range of the level of ter
mination of both the spinal cord and dural sac and a higher median level of
termination of each than is commonly described. These anatomical findings
are of clinical relevance to clinicians practicing regional anesthesia. Cli
n. Anat. 12:149-152, 1999. (C) 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.