Anatomical observations on the intermediate ganglion of the cervical sympathetic trunk (based on 232 specimens)

In a series of 116 adult dissecting-room human cadavers, the frequency, location and branches of the intermediate ganglion of the cervical sympathetic trunk were studied, bilaterally, i.e. in 232 specimens. The frequency of the ganglion was found 24.14%, of which in 12.93% a middle cervical ganglion was also present. The intermediate ganglion, lying usually anterior to the transverse process of the seventh cervical vertebra (41.2%) or to that of the sixth (35.3%), gives off splachnic and vascular branches and rami communicantes to the 6th and 7th cervical nerves. Its rami internodiales contribute to the prevertebral and subclavian ansae. Because of its independent preganglionic fibers the knowledge of its frequency and surgical anatomy is of significance in gangliectomies.