Definition

Noun: - A network of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve fibers: An "autonomic plexus" is a complex, interwoven network (plexus) of nerve fibers belonging to the autonomic nervous system. This system controls involuntary bodily functions. The plexus contains both sympathetic (involved in "fight or flight" responses) and parasympathetic (involved in "rest and digest" activities) fibers.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The celiac plexus is a major autonomic plexus that supplies nerves to the abdominal organs.
  • Surgery in that region requires careful navigation to avoid damaging the autonomic plexus.
  • The pain was thought to originate from irritation of the nearby autonomic plexus.

Advanced Usage

• Clinical Context: The term is primarily used in medical, anatomical, and physiological contexts. It often appears in discussions of nerve blocks (e.g., celiac plexus block for pain management) or surgical complications.
  • A neurolytic agent was injected to ablate the autonomic plexus and provide long-term pain relief.

Variants and Related Words

• Plexus (n): A general term for a network of nerves or blood vessels.
  • The brachial plexus supplies nerves to the arm.
• Autonomic Nervous System (n): The part of the nervous system responsible for control of involuntary bodily functions, subdivided into sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions.
• Sympathetic Plexus (n): A network containing primarily sympathetic nerve fibers.
• Parasympathetic Plexus (n): A network containing primarily parasympathetic nerve fibers.

Synonyms

• Visceral Plexus: Another term often used interchangeably, emphasizing the innervation of internal organs (viscera).
• Nerve Plexus (autonomic): A more descriptive synonym.

Related Phrases / Compound Terms

• Celiac Plexus: A specific major autonomic plexus located near the stomach.
• Hypogastric Plexus: An autonomic plexus located in the pelvis.
• Cardiac Plexus: An autonomic plexus surrounding the heart.

Noun

1. a plexus of sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve fibers