Vesical plexus

Vesical Plexus

The Vesical Plexus is a network of nerves that supplies the urinary bladder. It is part of the autonomic nervous system, specifically the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls involuntary body functions. The vesical plexus is involved in the control of urination.

Anatomy

The vesical plexus is located in the pelvis, surrounding the urinary bladder. It is formed by branches from the inferior hypogastric plexus, and also receives fibers from the sacral spinal nerves.

The vesical plexus is divided into two parts: the superior vesical plexus and the inferior vesical plexus. The superior vesical plexus supplies the upper part of the bladder, while the inferior vesical plexus supplies the lower part of the bladder and the urethra.

Function

The vesical plexus plays a crucial role in the process of urination. It carries both sensory and motor fibers. The sensory fibers carry information about the degree of stretch in the bladder wall to the central nervous system, which helps to regulate the urge to urinate. The motor fibers carry signals from the central nervous system to the muscles of the bladder wall, causing them to contract and expel urine.

Clinical significance

Damage to the vesical plexus can result in urinary problems such as urinary incontinence or urinary retention. This can occur as a result of surgery in the pelvis, such as prostate surgery, or due to conditions such as diabetes or multiple sclerosis that can damage nerves.

See also

• Inferior hypogastric plexus
• Urinary bladder
• Urination
• Autonomic nervous system