The thorax

Question 1

Describe the pathway of the Vagus nerve through the thorax

Answer 1

• Right vagus descends into the thorax, behind the root of the right lung
• Forms the posterior pulmonary plexus
• Left vagus lies lateral to the aortic arch
• Contributes to the oesophageal plexus
• Enters the abdomen on the anterior aspect of the oesophagus

Question 2

Describe the pathway of the Phrenic nerve through the thorax

Answer 2

• Originates in the neck (C3-C5)
• Runs between each lungs and the heart to reach the diaphragm
• Also send some sensory fibres to the pericardium

Question 3

What does the vagus nerve innovate

Answer 3

Heart
Lungs
Digestive tract

Question 4

What kind of control does the vagus nerve exert

Answer 4

Parasympathetic control

Question 5

What does the phrenic nerve innovate?

Answer 5

The diaphragm

Also sends some sensory fibres to the pericardium