Gastric plexuses

Gastric Plexuses is a term used in the field of Anatomy to refer to a network of nerves found in the stomach. The term "plexus" is derived from the Latin word for "braid", which is a fitting description for the intricate network of nerves that make up the gastric plexuses.

Etymology

The term "Gastric Plexuses" is derived from two words. "Gastric" is derived from the Greek word "gaster", which means stomach. "Plexus" is derived from the Latin word "plexus", which means braid or network. Together, the term refers to the network of nerves found in the stomach.

Anatomy

The gastric plexuses are part of the Enteric Nervous System, which is a part of the Autonomic Nervous System. They are located in the walls of the stomach and are responsible for controlling the function of the stomach. The gastric plexuses include the anterior and posterior gastric plexuses, which are located on the anterior and posterior surfaces of the stomach, respectively.

Function

The gastric plexuses play a crucial role in the regulation of gastric functions. They control the secretion of gastric juices, the contraction and relaxation of the stomach muscles, and the opening and closing of the Pyloric Sphincter, which controls the passage of food from the stomach to the small intestine.

Clinical Significance

Damage or disease affecting the gastric plexuses can lead to a variety of gastrointestinal disorders, including Gastroparesis, a condition characterized by delayed gastric emptying, and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting the mouth and stomach (esophagus).

See Also

• Enteric Nervous System
• Autonomic Nervous System
• Gastroparesis
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

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