Splanchnic nerve

Splanchnic nerves are a group of autonomic (primarily sympathetic, except for the parasympathetic pelvic splanchnic nerves) paired nerves that provide visceral sensory and motor innervation to the organs of the abdomen and pelvis. These nerves arise from the thoracic, lumbar, sacral segments (sympathetic), and from the sacral spinal nerves S2–S4 (parasympathetic, pelvic splanchnic nerves). Functions include regulation of gastrointestinal secretion and motility, urinary and reproductive function, and pain transmission from visceral organs. Nerve blocks or surgical ablation (splanchnicectomy) may be used for the management of intractable visceral pain.

Other names

Greater splanchnic nerveLesser splanchnic nerveLeast splanchnic nerveLumbar splanchnic nerveSacral splanchnic nervePelvic splanchnic nerveNervi erigentes

Not applicable for drugs; for nerve procedures—interruption of nerve transmission for pain relief or modulation of autonomic activity