Coeliac plexus

Coeliac Plexus

The coeliac plexus (also known as the solar plexus) is a complex network of nerves located in the abdomen, near where the celiac trunk, superior mesenteric artery, and renal arteries branch from the aorta. It is behind the stomach and the pancreas.

Anatomy

The coeliac plexus is the largest of the autonomic plexuses and is located at the level of the first lumbar vertebra. It is formed by the greater and lesser splanchnic nerves and branches from the anterior and posterior vagus nerves.

Function

The coeliac plexus innervates most of the abdominal viscera. It plays a key role in the regulation of many abdominal functions, including the secretion of digestive enzymes, the contraction of smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, and the regulation of blood flow to the abdominal organs.

Clinical significance

Blockage or injury to the coeliac plexus can cause severe pain and other symptoms, depending on the organs affected. A coeliac plexus block is a medical procedure used to reduce pain in certain conditions, such as pancreatic cancer or chronic pancreatitis.

See also

• Autonomic nervous system
• Enteric nervous system
• Plexus
• Splanchnic nerves