Corpus: Celiac plexus
1. Definition
The celiac plexus is an autonomic nerve plexus that is localized in the abdomen around the celiac trunk and continues downwards into the abdominal aortic plexus.
2. Anatomy
Together with the superior mesenteric plexus, the celiac plexus forms the so-called "solar plexus" (plexus solaris). It is normally found at the level of Th12 to L2 in the retroperitoneal space in front of the aorta. It is located on both sides and on the caudal circumference of the celiac trunk and at the outlet of the renal artery and the superior mesenteric artery.
The following branches are distinguished:
- Major splanchnic nerve
- Minor splanchnic nerve
- Fibers from the upper lumbar sympathetic ganglia
- Parasympathetic vagus branches from the posterior vagal trunk
2.1. Ganglia
Several ganglion cell collections, the celiac ganglia, are interspersed in the celiac plexus. The right celiac ganglion lies behind the vena cava and reaches almost to the adrenal gland, the left celiac ganglion lies to the left of the aorta. Both ganglia are connected below the celiac trunk. The superior mesenteric ganglion is located at the exit of the superior mesenteric artery. The renal ganglion and aorticorenal ganglion are located at the exit of the renal arteries.
2.2. Branches
The celiac plexus continues into numerous smaller plexuses that run together with the blood vessels to the abdominal organs. These include:
3. Function
The celiac plexus regulates the secretory and motor activity of the abdominal organs via visceromotor fibers and receives viscerosensitive fibers from the abdominal viscera. Its supply area includes:
4. Clinic
Blockade of the celiac plexus is used to eliminate pain in pancreatic carcinomas.