Ganglion hepaticum is a term used to refer to a nerve plexus located in the liver. The spelling of the term may appear difficult to read or understand, but the use of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) can make it clearer. The term is pronounced /ˈɡæŋgliən hɪˈpætɪkəm/. The word "ganglion" is pronounced /ˈɡæŋɡliən/ meaning a structure containing nerve cell bodies. "Hepaticum" is pronounced /hɪˈpætɪkəm/ which essentially means "of the liver". Regular practice with IPA can help improve spelling of complex medical terms.
Ganglion hepaticum, also known as celiac ganglion or hepatic plexus ganglion, is a term used in anatomy and medicine to describe a small group of nerve cell bodies that are located in close proximity to the liver. It is part of the autonomic nervous system, specifically the sympathetic division.
The ganglion hepaticum is found in the abdominal cavity, near the celiac trunk, which is a major branch of the abdominal aorta. It receives input from various nerves, including the greater splanchnic nerves. These nerves carry signals from the sympathetic chain located along the spinal column to the ganglion.
Its primary function is to regulate and control the involuntary actions of the liver, including blood flow, secretion, and contraction. Through nerve fibers that emanate from the ganglion hepaticum, it communicates with other ganglia of the autonomic nervous system and with the liver itself. It plays a vital role in maintaining homeostasis within the liver and coordinating physiological responses to various internal and external stimuli.
The ganglion hepaticum has clinical importance in the field of medicine, especially in surgeries involving the liver or related structures. Knowledge of its location and connectivity is crucial for surgical interventions that aim to preserve the integrity of the ganglion while addressing liver pathologies or managing pain.
A nerve g. encircling the hepatic artery.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "ganglion hepaticum" has a scientific and Latin origin. Here is the etymology breakdown:
1. Ganglion: The term "ganglion" comes from the Greek word "gánglion" (γάγγλιον) which means "tumor" or "swelling". It was borrowed into Latin as "ganglion" meaning "knot" or "mass". In modern usage, it refers to a grouping of nerve cell bodies or a cystic tumor.
2. Hepaticum: The term "hepaticum" is derived from the Latin word "hepar" which means "liver". It pertains to anything related to or associated with the liver.
Therefore, "ganglion hepaticum" refers to a mass or knot-like structure that is specifically related to the liver.