Definition
noun, singular: prevertebral ganglion
(1) Sympathetic ganglia located in front of the vertebral column, mainly involved in the innervation of abdominal and pelvic viscera.
(2) Ganglia situated between the sympathetic trunk and the organ of supply.
Supplement
Sympathetic ganglia can be divided into two major groups based on their location:
- paravertebral ganglia
- prevertebral ganglia
The prevertebral ganglia are those ganglia not part of the sympathetic chain. These ganglia are closely associated with the major ventral branches of the aorta. Hence, ganglia can be found near the origin of celiac artery (called celiac ganglion), and of the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries (called superior mesenteric ganglion and inferior mesenteric ganglion, respectively).
Synonyms:
- collateral ganglia
- preaortic ganglia
Compare: paravertebral ganglia
See also: sympathetic ganglia
