Definition

Noun: * A network of intersecting nerves located in the neck region, specifically beneath the sternocleidomastoid muscle. It is formed by the ventral rami (anterior divisions) of the first four cervical spinal nerves (C1–C4) and provides sensory and motor innervation to parts of the neck, head, and shoulders.

Usage

• The plexus cervicalis is a critical anatomical structure for neck surgeries and regional anesthesia.
• Damage to the plexus cervicalis can result in loss of sensation or muscle function in specific areas of the neck and scalp.

Examples

• The anesthesiologist targeted the plexus cervicalis to provide numbness for the surgical procedure.
• In the anatomy lab, students carefully dissected the neck to locate the plexus cervicalis and its branches.
• Trauma to the side of the neck risked injury to the plexus cervicalis.

Advanced Usage

• Clinical context: The plexus cervicalis is often discussed in relation to cervical plexus blocks, a form of regional anesthesia used for neck surgeries and carotid endarterectomy.
• Pathological context: Conditions like tumors, penetrating injuries, or surgical complications can involve the plexus cervicalis, leading to neurological deficits.

Variants and Related Words

• Cervical plexus: This is the most common English synonym and alternative term for .
• Branches of the cervical plexus: Refers to the specific nerves that emerge from the network, such as the lesser occipital nerve, great auricular nerve, transverse cervical nerve, and supraclavicular nerves.
• Nerve plexus: A general term for a branching network of intersecting nerves. The plexus cervicalis is one example; others include the brachial plexus and lumbar plexus.

Synonyms

• Cervical plexus

Related Anatomical Structures

• Sternocleidomastoid muscle: The muscle under which the plexus cervicalis lies.
• Cervical spinal nerves (C1–C4): The spinal nerve roots that contribute to the formation of the plexus.
• Phrenic nerve: A major nerve important for breathing that receives contributions from the cervical plexus (specifically C3–C5).

Noun

1. a nerve plexus lying beneath the sternocleidomastoid muscle