Cardiac plexus
Cardiac Plexus
The Cardiac Plexus (pronounced: /ˈkɑːrdiæk ˈpleksəs/) is a complex network of nerves situated near the base of the heart, primarily responsible for the autonomic control of the heart's function.
Etymology
The term "Cardiac Plexus" is derived from the Greek words "kardia" meaning heart, and "plexus" meaning braid, referring to the intricate network of nerves.
Anatomy
The Cardiac Plexus is divided into two parts: the Superficial Cardiac Plexus and the Deep Cardiac Plexus. The superficial plexus is located in the concavity of the aortic arch while the deep plexus is located between the aortic arch and the tracheal bifurcation.
Function
The Cardiac Plexus plays a crucial role in the regulation of the heart's function. It carries both sympathetic and parasympathetic fibers that control the heart rate, force of myocardial contraction, and coronary blood flow.
Related Terms
- Autonomic Nervous System: The part of the nervous system responsible for control of the bodily functions not consciously directed, such as breathing, the heartbeat, and digestive processes.
- Sympathetic Nervous System: One of the two main divisions of the autonomic nervous system, it increases the heart rate, constricts blood vessels, and raises blood pressure.
- Parasympathetic Nervous System: The other main division of the autonomic nervous system, it slows the heart rate, increases intestinal and gland activity, and relaxes sphincter muscles.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cardiac plexus
- Wikipedia's article - Cardiac plexus
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