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Definition

noun, plural: stellate ganglia

A star-shaped cluster of nerves in the cervicothoracic region of the sympathetic trunk. It is formed from the fusion of the inferior cervical ganglion and the first thoracic ganglion.

Supplement

This ganglion is specifically located anterior to the transverse process of the seventh cervical vertebrae, posterior to the neck of the first rib, below the subclavian artery, and close to the first thoracic ganglion, with which it is usually fused.

Blocking the stellate ganglion is found to reduce the severity and frequency of hot flashes, especially in breast cancer survivors.

Synonyms:

• cervicothoracic ganglion or ganglion cervicothoracicum
• ganglion stellatum

See also: sympathetic trunk