Surgical anatomy of the pelvic autonomic nerves. A practical approach.

Since the pelvic autonomic nerves are not distinctly seen during mobilization of the sigmoid colon or rectum, the surgeon must have a conceptual picture of the "flow" of these nerves in mind at the time of operation in order to avoid inadvertent nerve injury which may have serious physiologic consequences. The surgical anatomy of the pelvic autonomic nerves is reviewed in a concise fashion highlighted with updated illustrations that help simplify important anatomic relationships.