Phrenic

Phrenic refers to anything that is related to the phrenic nerve, a nerve that originates in the neck (C3-C5) and passes down between the lung and heart to reach the diaphragm. It is of utmost importance for breathing, as it passes motor information to the diaphragm and receives sensory information from it. There are two phrenic nerves, a left and a right one.

Anatomy

The phrenic nerves are paired, bilateral nerves that pass motor, sensory, and sympathetic nerve fibers. They originate from the third, fourth, and fifth cervical spinal nerves (C3-C5) in the neck. From their origin, they descend obliquely across the anterior scalene muscle, deep to the carotid sheath.

Function

The phrenic nerves have a number of functions, primarily related to breathing. They carry nerve fibers for motor control to the diaphragm, which is the primary muscle of respiration. This allows the diaphragm to contract and relax, facilitating breathing. The phrenic nerves also carry sensory information from the diaphragm back to the central nervous system.

Clinical significance

Damage to the phrenic nerve can result in difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, can cause a condition known as diaphragmatic paralysis. This can be caused by a number of factors, including surgery, tumors, and certain medical conditions. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the damage, and in some cases, may involve surgery to repair or stimulate the nerve.

See also

• Diaphragm (anatomy)
• Nervous system
• Respiratory system

References

Phrenic Resources
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