The term plexus hepaticus is commonly used in anatomy to refer to the network of nerves surrounding the liver. The spelling of this term can be a bit tricky due to the combination of letters and sounds. The word is spelled as pleks-uhs huh-pat-ik-uhs, with the first syllable pronounced with a short "e" vowel sound and the second syllable with a long "a" vowel sound. Additionally, the "x" is pronounced as a "ks" sound, and the "c" in "hepaticus" is followed by an "h" to indicate a hard "k" sound.
The term "plexus hepaticus" refers to the hepatic plexus, which is a complex network of nerves found in the liver. The liver is a vital organ that performs a range of functions, including processing nutrients, filtering toxins, and producing bile. The plexus hepaticus plays an integral role in controlling and regulating the various activities and functions of the liver through the transmission of nerve impulses.
The plexus hepaticus is formed by the joining of afferent (sensory) and efferent (motor) nerves derived from both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system. These nerves carry signals to and from the liver, allowing it to receive and respond to information from the central nervous system.
The hepatic plexus is responsible for regulating various physiological processes within the liver, including the secretion of bile, blood flow regulation, and controlling the release of glucose from hepatic cells into the bloodstream. It also plays a role in modulating immune responses in the liver and may influence hepatic regeneration.
In summary, the plexus hepaticus refers to the intricate network of nerves found in the liver that controls and regulates its functions, including nutrient processing, toxin filtration, bile secretion, and glucose release. It serves as a crucial interface between the central nervous system and the liver, allowing for communication and coordination of various physiological activities.
Hepatic p., an unpaired sympathetic p. lying on the hepatic artery and its branches in the liver.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term plexus hepaticus is derived from Latin.
- Plexus refers to a network or a structure formed by interconnecting parts. In anatomy, it generally refers to a network of nerves, blood vessels, or lymphatic vessels.
- Hepaticus is derived from the Latin word hepar, which means liver. It is used to refer to something related to the liver.
Therefore, plexus hepaticus can be translated as hepatic plexus or network of blood vessels/nerves in the liver.