| Ludwig's nerve | <anatomy, nerve> A branch of the vagus which ends in the aortic arch and base of the heart; composed entirely of afferent fibres; its stimulation elicits a brainstem reflex which causes slowing of the heart, dilation of the peripheral vessels, and a fall in blood pressure. Synonym: Cyon's nerve, depressor nerve of Ludwig, Ludwig's nerve. (05 Mar 2000) |
|---|---|
| Ludwig, Wilhelm Friedrich von | <person> German surgeon, 1790-1865. See: Ludwig's angina. (05 Mar 2000) |