Distribution of vagus nerve fibres in the stomach wall

The distribution of vagus nerve fibres and their connections with the intrinsic nerve elements and effector cells were studied following vagotomy at the cardia. Degenerated nerve fibres were found in all layers of the stomach wall 2 days after the operation. No regional difference was noted in the density of degenerated fibres. They could be subdivided into groups on the basis of their vesicle content. Fibres in synaptic junction with an intrinsic nerve cell or with its processes were rare. There were several degenerated fibres also in the inner muscle layer in connection with the smooth muscle cells. Two months after the operation 90-95% of the nerve fibres in the stomach wall remained intact, and several synapses could be observed. It was concluded that although the vagus nerve is indirectly coupled to the nerve elements of the myenteric plexus the intrinsic nerve cells are decisive for gastric functions.