What is typically preserved in Anterior cord syndrome?

In anterior cord syndrome, there is damage to the anterior portion of the spinal cord, which affects the corticospinal tracts and the anterior spinothalamic tract. The corticospinal tracts are responsible for voluntary motor control, while the anterior spinothalamic tract carries pain and temperature sensations.

In this condition, the preservation of touch and vibration sensation is due to the intact dorsal columns (also known as the posterior columns), which are located at the back of the spinal cord. These dorsal columns are responsible for proprioception, touch, and vibration sensation and remain unaffected by the anterior cord injury.

This preservation is key in distinguishing anterior cord syndrome from other types of spinal cord injuries. The loss of pain and temperature sensation occurs below the level of the injury, while the ability to feel touch and vibration, mediated by the intact dorsal columns, is preserved. Therefore, the correct choice highlights the sensory modalities that are still functional despite the anterior spinal cord damage.