Anastomosis intradiafragmáticas de los nervios frénicos: estudio preliminar.

The description of anastomosis of the phrenic nerve has been little studied and even controversial at present. Classical authors such as Testut have briefly described this anastomosis. 13 anatomical preparations formalized at 10% were used, identifying 26 phrenic nerves from their location in the neck and being dissected to their terminal distribution in the diaphragm muscle. A distribution of the phrenic nerve was observed in 3 terminal branches, anterior, lateral and posterior. These branches penetrate the muscle and run initially between the muscle fibers and then on the underside of the muscle and the fascia. In monitoring the anterior branch of the phrenic nerve, it was found that it divided into several branches. 2 constantly stood out, one anterior towards the sternum and another medial that borders the pericardium, which was of interest to us. In 38% of the cases, anastomoses were found between the right and left phrenic nerves, located mainly anterior to the pericardium, which would indicate a justification for reinnervation due to damage to the phrenic. This anatomical description is of utmost importance in cases of bilateral injury to the phrenic nerve and explains the recovery of the denervated diaphragm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]