Which structure must be incised before the removal of the nucleus pulposus?

The annulus fibrosis is the correct structure that must be incised before the removal of the nucleus pulposus during a discectomy or similar surgical procedures on the intervertebral discs. The annulus fibrosis is the tough, outer layer of the intervertebral disc that encases the softer nucleus pulposus, which is the gelatinous core.

To access the nucleus pulposus for removal, surgeons need to make an incision through the annulus fibrosus to gain entry to the inner disc material. This procedure is essential for addressing conditions like herniated discs, where the nucleus pulposus may protrude and press on nearby nerves, causing pain and dysfunction.

Other structures mentioned, such as the dura mater, spinal canal, and vertebral body, play important roles in spinal anatomy, but they are not directly incised to access the nucleus pulposus. The dura mater is the tough protective covering of the spinal cord and nerves but typically isn’t involved in this specific incision. The spinal canal is the passage that houses the spinal cord, and while it is part of the surgical context, it is not something that is incised for disc access. The vertebral body provides structural support but is not directly involved in the removal