Superior mesenteric ganglion

In the upper part of the superior mesenteric plexus close to the origin of the superior mesenteric artery is a ganglion, the superior mesenteric ganglion.

The superior mesenteric ganglion is the synapsing point for one of the pre- and post-synaptic nerves of the sympathetic division of the autonomous nervous system. Specifically, contributions to the Superior Mesenteric Ganglion arise from CN X. This nerve goes on to innervate the small intestine, the ascending colon and the transverse colon.