Abdominal aortic plexus

Abdominal aortic plexus (AAP) is a network of nerves located in the abdomen, specifically around the aorta, the main artery of the body. It is a part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary body functions such as heart rate, digestion, and breathing.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The abdominal aortic plexus wraps around the abdominal aorta, from which it derives its name. It is formed by branches from the celiac plexus, the superior mesenteric plexus, and the aorticorenal ganglion. The plexus extends from the upper part of the abdominal aorta to the level where it bifurcates into the common iliac arteries.

Function[edit | edit source]

The abdominal aortic plexus plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood flow and organ function in the abdomen. It carries sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve fibers that control the function of the abdominal organs. The sympathetic fibers cause vasoconstriction, or narrowing of the blood vessels, which increases blood pressure. The parasympathetic fibers, on the other hand, cause vasodilation, or widening of the blood vessels, which decreases blood pressure.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Damage or disease affecting the abdominal aortic plexus can lead to a variety of health problems. For example, an aortic aneurysm, a bulge in the wall of the aorta, can compress the plexus and cause pain or organ dysfunction. Similarly, a tumor or infection in the abdomen can also affect the plexus. Treatment for these conditions often involves surgery to repair the aorta or remove the cause of the compression.