Common carotid plexus

Common Carotid Plexus is a network of nerve fibers that surrounds the common carotid artery. It is part of the autonomic nervous system, specifically the sympathetic nervous system, and plays a crucial role in the regulation of blood flow and blood pressure.

Anatomy

The common carotid plexus is formed by fibers from the superior cervical ganglion, the highest of the three cervical ganglia in the sympathetic trunk. These fibers descend along the common carotid artery, forming a network around it. The plexus also receives branches from the vagus nerve and the glossopharyngeal nerve.

Function

The common carotid plexus carries sympathetic nerve fibers that control the diameter of the blood vessels. By constricting or dilating the blood vessels, the plexus helps regulate blood flow and blood pressure. It also carries sensory information from the blood vessels to the brain.

Clinical significance

Damage to the common carotid plexus can result in a variety of symptoms, including changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and blood flow to the head and neck. It can also cause Horner's syndrome, a condition characterized by drooping of the eyelid, constriction of the pupil, and absence of sweating on one side of the face.

See also

• Carotid artery
• Sympathetic nervous system
• Vagus nerve
• Glossopharyngeal nerve
• Horner's syndrome