PLEXUS COELIACUS Meaning and
Definition
-
Plexus coeliacus refers to a complex network of nerves located in the abdomen, specifically in the upper region known as the celiac plexus. It is a part of the autonomic nervous system that plays a crucial role in regulating various functions of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, spleen, and kidneys.
Composed of multiple intertwined nerves, the plexus coeliacus is situated around the celiac artery, a major blood vessel that supplies blood to the abdominal organs. It consists of both sympathetic and parasympathetic fibers that are responsible for conveying sensory and motor impulses to and from the organs in this region.
The sympathetic fibers of the plexus coeliacus primarily originate from the thoracic spinal cord, specifically from the levels of T5 to T12. They are involved in controlling vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) and regulating processes such as digestion, metabolism, and blood flow.
On the other hand, the parasympathetic fibers of the plexus coeliacus originate from the vagus nerves, which descend from the brainstem. These fibers are responsible for promoting vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and enhancing gastrointestinal activity, including the secretion of digestive enzymes and peristalsis.
The plexus coeliacus also contains sensory fibers that transmit information on pain, pressure, and other sensations from the abdominal organs to the central nervous system.
Overall, the plexus coeliacus serves as a crucial nerve center that coordinates and regulates various vital functions in the abdomen, making it an integral component of the autonomic nervous system.
-
Celiac p.; (1) solar p., abdominal brain, the largest of the sympathetic plexuses lying in front of the aorta at the level of origin of the celiac artery, behind the stomach; it is formed by the splanchnic and the pneumogastric nerves and cords from the celiac and superior mesenteric ganglia; through ita connections with the other abdominal plexuses it sends branches to all the abdominal viscera; (2) a lymphatic plexus formed of the superior mesenteric lymph nodes and the fifteen or twenty celiac nodes behind the stomach, duodenum, and pancreas, together with the connecting vessels.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PLEXUS COELIACUS
- -plexus celiacus
- olexus coeliacus
- llexus coeliacus
- -lexus coeliacus
- 0lexus coeliacus
- pkexus coeliacus
- ppexus coeliacus
- poexus coeliacus
- plwxus coeliacus
- plsxus coeliacus
- pldxus coeliacus
- plrxus coeliacus
- pl4xus coeliacus
- pl3xus coeliacus
- plezus coeliacus
- plecus coeliacus
- pledus coeliacus
- plesus coeliacus
- plexys coeliacus
- plexhs coeliacus
Etymology of PLEXUS COELIACUS
The word "Plexus Coeliacus" has its etymology rooted in Latin and Greek.
The word "plexus" comes from Latin, meaning "a network" or "interwoven". It is derived from the verb "plectere", which means "to weave". In anatomy, the term "plexus" is used to describe a network of nerves or blood vessels.
The word "coeliacus" is derived from the Greek word "koiliakos", meaning "pertaining to the abdomen". It is ultimately descended from the Greek word "koilia", which means "abdomen" or "belly".
So, when combined, "Plexus Coeliacus" refers to the network of nerves located in the abdomen, specifically in the region around the coeliac artery. This plexus plays a significant role in innervating various abdominal organs.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
