CARDIAC PLEXUS Meaning and
Definition
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The cardiac plexus refers to a complex network of nerves located around the base of the heart, specifically in the thoracic cavity. It is largely composed of parasympathetic and sympathetic fibers that innervate the heart, regulating its physiological functions.
The parasympathetic component of the cardiac plexus originates from the vagus nerve and is responsible for decreasing heart rate and constricting the coronary arteries, thereby reducing cardiac output. On the other hand, the sympathetic component arises from the sympathetic trunks and accelerates the heart rate, dilates the coronary arteries, and enhances cardiac output. These opposing effects help maintain optimal cardiovascular function and respond to different physiological demands.
The cardiac plexus plays a vital role in regulating cardiac rhythm, blood pressure, and coronary blood flow. It serves as a major communication center between the heart, the brain, and other parts of the autonomic nervous system. Dysfunction or imbalances within the cardiac plexus can lead to arrhythmias, impaired blood flow, and other cardiac disorders.
Understanding the cardiac plexus is of significant clinical importance, particularly in cardiovascular medicine and cardiac surgery. Manipulation and control of the nerves in the plexus can be utilized to manage certain cardiac conditions, such as atrial fibrillation or angina. Furthermore, studying the cardiac plexus provides valuable insights into the intricate interplay between the autonomic nervous system and the cardiovascular system.
Common Misspellings for CARDIAC PLEXUS
- xardiac plexus
- vardiac plexus
- fardiac plexus
- dardiac plexus
- czrdiac plexus
- csrdiac plexus
- cwrdiac plexus
- cqrdiac plexus
- caediac plexus
- caddiac plexus
- cafdiac plexus
- catdiac plexus
- ca5diac plexus
- ca4diac plexus
- carsiac plexus
- carxiac plexus
- carciac plexus
- carfiac plexus
- carriac plexus
Etymology of CARDIAC PLEXUS
The word "cardiac" originates from the Greek word "kardia", meaning "heart". The term "plexus" comes from the Latin word "plexus", which means "a braid" or "a network". Therefore, the etymology of "cardiac plexus" can be understood as the network or braided structure located in the heart.
Similar spelling words for CARDIAC PLEXUS
- cardiac murmur,
- Cardiac Glucoside,
- cardiac glycoside,
- Plexus, cardiac,
- cardiac massage,
- cardiac arrest,
- cardiac muscle,
- cardiac cycle,
- cardiac sphincter,
- cardiac valve,
- cardiac pacemaker,
- cardiac rhythm,
- cardiac output.
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