sympathetic trunk (ganglionic chain)

Introduction

1 of 2 long, ganglionated nerve strands alongside the vertebral column, extending from the base of the skull to the coccyx. (image)

Innervation

• they are connected to each spinal nerve by gray rami & receive fibers from the spinal cord through white rami, connecting with the thoracic & upper lumbar spinal nerves

Pathology

• cervical sympathetic chain dysfunction may be due to hyoid bone syndrom
• cervical sympathetic chain dysfunction includes
  • Horner syndrome
  • neuropathic pain
  • hyperhidrosis

More general terms

• peripheral nerve

More specific terms

• ansa subclavia, (subclavian/Vieussens loop, Vieussens ansa)

Component of

• sympathetic nervous system

Components

• sympathetic ganglion