Nerves Associated with Respiration (AP) Flashcards
2 branches of vagus nerve innervating larynx
- Superior laryngeal nerve
- Recurrent laryngeal nerve
2 branches of superior laryngeal nerve, and what each provides to where
- Internal branch = sensory to laryngeal cavity above folds
- External branch = motor to cricothyroid
What does the recurrent laryngeal nerve provide to where?
- Sensory to laryngeal cavity below folds + trachea
- Motor to intrinsic laryngeal muscles except cricothyroid
Motor and sensory functions of phrenic nerve
- M = innervate diaphragm
- S = innervate central tendon of diaphragm
When/where is the phrenic nerve prone to injury?
- Cardiac surgery
- Removal of lung/mediastinum tumour
- Neck (stabbing injury)
What does injury to the diaphragm result in?
Paradoxical movement of the diaphragm
Where do intercostal nerves arise?
Ventral rami of spinal nerves T1-11
Motor function of intercostal nerves
Innervate intercostal + abdominal wall muscles
Sensory branches of intercostal nerves and what they provide to
- Lateral cutaneous nerve = somatic sensation of skin (lateral body)
- Anterior cutaneous nerve = somatic sensation of skin (front of body)
- Sensory branches to parietal pleura/peritoneum = somatic sensation
- Branch to peripheral diaphragm (T6-11) = sensation
Which muscles does the intercostal neurovascular bundle lie between?
Internal + innermost intercostals
What is thoracentesis and when is it needed?
- Needle inserted into plural space
- Pleural effusion
Where does a needle need to be placed in relation to the rib in thoracentesis and why?
- Over the rib
- Avoids neurovascular bundle –> otherwise nerve damaged
What happens when the intercostal nerve is damaged?
- Muscles loses motor innervation
- Will be drawn in on inspiration + pushed out on expiration
What is pleuritic pain?
Localised, sharp stabbing made worse on deep inspiration, coughing or movement
What causes pleuritic pain?
Viral or bacterial infection
