The spelling of "plexus aorticus" may seem challenging, but with the help of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), it is easier to understand how to pronounce it. The first word, "plexus," is pronounced as "plek-suhss" with the stress on the first syllable. The second word, "aorticus," is pronounced as "ay-awr-tuh-kuhss" with the stress on the second syllable. Together, they form the term "plexus aorticus," which refers to the network of nerves that surround the aorta. Knowing the IPA can help with proper pronunciation and spelling of complex medical terms.
Plexus aorticus refers to a complex network of nerves located around the aorta, which is the largest artery in the human body that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to other organs and tissues. The plexus aorticus is specifically found in the region of the aorta where it arises from the heart, known as the aortic arch.
This network of nerves is formed by a collection of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve fibers, which are part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for regulating involuntary functions of the body. The sympathetic nerves originating from the plexus aorticus primarily control various aspects of the body's "fight-or-flight" responses, such as increasing heart rate, constricting blood vessels, and preparing the body for stressful situations. On the other hand, parasympathetic nerves originating from the plexus aorticus play a role in calming the body and promoting rest and digest functions.
The plexus aorticus serves as a crucial connection between the central nervous system and vital organs supplied by the aorta, including the heart, lungs, and esophagus. It helps facilitate communication and coordination between the brain and these organs, allowing for appropriate regulation of blood pressure, heart rate, respiration, and other physiological processes.
Overall, the plexus aorticus plays a vital role in maintaining homeostasis and controlling autonomic functions in the body, thereby ensuring proper functioning of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
Aortic plexus, a plexus of lymph nodes and connecting vessels lying along the lower portion of the abdominal aorta.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The etymology of the term "plexus aorticus" can be broken down as follows:
1. Plexus: The word "plexus" comes from the Latin word "plexus", which means "a braid" or "a network". It is derived from the verb "plectere", which means "to weave or to entwine". In anatomical terminology, "plexus" refers to a network of nerves, blood vessels, or other structures that are interwoven or intertwined.
2. Aorticus: The word "aorticus" is a Latin adjective derived from the noun "aorta". "Aorta" originates from the Greek word "aortē", which means "a vessel" or "a conduit". In particular, it refers to a major systemic artery that originates from the left ventricle of the heart and distributes oxygenated blood to various parts of the body.