Pelvic splanchnic nerves

Pelvic splanchnic nerves or nervi erigentes are nerves that arise from the second, third and fourth sacral spinal nerves (S2, S3, S4). They provide parasympathetic innervation to the distal half of the large intestine, the rectum, the urinary bladder, and the genital organs.

Etymology

The term "splanchnic" is derived from the Greek word "splanchna," which means "entrails" or "internal organs." The term "nervi erigentes" is Latin for "erecting nerves," referring to their function in sexual arousal.

Anatomy

The pelvic splanchnic nerves arise from the anterior rami of the sacral spinal nerves S2, S3, and S4. They pass through the sacral plexus and continue as the pelvic splanchnic nerves. These nerves carry parasympathetic fibers to the pelvic organs.

Function

The pelvic splanchnic nerves carry both sensory and motor fibers. They provide parasympathetic innervation to the distal half of the large intestine, the rectum, the urinary bladder, and the genital organs. They also carry sensory information from these organs back to the central nervous system.

Clinical significance

Damage to the pelvic splanchnic nerves can result in a variety of symptoms, depending on the specific location and extent of the damage. These may include urinary and bowel incontinence, sexual dysfunction, and chronic pelvic pain.

See also

• Sacral plexus
• Parasympathetic nervous system
• Autonomic nervous system

References

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