Celiac branches of vagus nerve

Celiac branches of vagus nerve

Celiac branches of vagus nerve, shown in red.

The Celiac branches of vagus nerve are branches of the vagus nerve that supply the abdominal organs. They are part of the parasympathetic nervous system and play a crucial role in the regulation of organ function.

Anatomy

The celiac branches of the vagus nerve originate from the anterior vagal trunk and the posterior vagal trunk, which are themselves branches of the vagus nerve. They descend into the abdomen through the esophageal hiatus of the diaphragm and distribute to the celiac plexus.

Function

The celiac branches of the vagus nerve carry parasympathetic fibers to the abdominal organs. They play a crucial role in the regulation of digestion, including the secretion of gastric acid and the control of peristalsis.

Clinical significance

Damage to the celiac branches of the vagus nerve can result in a variety of symptoms, including gastroparesis, peptic ulcer disease, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

See also

• Vagus nerve
• Celiac plexus
• Parasympathetic nervous system