Superior mesenteric ganglion

Superior mesenteric ganglion is formed by the accumulation of cell bodies of post-ganglionic sympathetic neurons within the superior mesenteric part of celiac plexus. The superior mesenteric plexus surrounds the origin of superior mesenteric artery and gives rise to various secondary plexuses that invest the branches of superior mesenteric artery.

The superior mesenteric ganglion is an unpaired ganglion. It serves as the site of synapsis for the preganglionic sympathetic neurons which arise from the lateral gray horns of spinal cord and reach out to the superior mesenteric ganglion via the splanchnic nerves. Thereupon, the post-ganglionic sympathetic neurons follow the branches of superior mesenteric artery to innervate various parts of the midgut–including the jejunum, ileum, ascending and transverse colon–leading to an increase in peristalsis and decrease in secretions.