What is a.phrenica inferior?

The phrenic nerve is a nerve that originates from the cervical spine (C3-C5) and runs down through the thorax to innervate the diaphragm, which is the primary muscle responsible for breathing. The phrenic nerve can be divided into two branches: the superior phrenic nerve and the inferior phrenic nerve.

The inferior phrenic nerve, also known as the phrenic nerve of Luschka, arises from the anterior rami of spinal nerves C5-C6. It descends through the thorax, whereas the superior phrenic nerve descends through the neck. The inferior phrenic nerve innervates the diaphragm and also sends branches to the pericardium, the esophagus, and the adrenal glands.

Lesions or damage to the inferior phrenic nerve can result in a condition called "diaphragmatic paralysis," which can cause respiratory distress and can lead to a range of complications. Clinicians use various diagnostic tests to evaluate the function of the phrenic nerves, including imaging studies, nerve conduction studies, and diaphragmatic electromyography.