Nervus splanchnicus minor, commonly known as the lesser splanchnic nerve, is a small nerve found in the human body. It is a part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls various involuntary functions of the body.
The nervus splanchnicus minor arises from the sympathetic chain ganglia, which are located on both sides of the vertebral column. Specifically, it originates from the tenth or eleventh thoracic ganglia. These ganglia contain groups of nerve cells that transmit signals between the central nervous system and other parts of the body.
The nervus splanchnicus minor travels downwards and branches off to innervate different organs and structures located in the abdominal cavity. It provides sympathetic innervation to various structures such as the kidneys, adrenal glands, and parts of the gastrointestinal tract.
The primary function of the nervus splanchnicus minor is to regulate and control the activities of the organs it innervates. It helps in maintaining the overall balance of bodily functions and plays a role in responses to stress and emergency situations. By transmitting sympathetic signals, it influences aspects such as blood flow, hormone release, and digestion.
In summary, the nervus splanchnicus minor is a small nerve originating from the sympathetic chain ganglia and innervating various organs in the abdominal cavity. It is an essential component of the autonomic nervous system, contributing to the control of involuntary bodily functions.
