phrenic nerves

roots and course

  • C3-5
  • passes inferiorly over surface of anterior scalene within prevertebral fascia
  • through thoracic inlet lateral to trachea
  • passes anterior to lung roots
  • passes through diaphragm with IVC

important supply

  • Somatic: pleura (diaphragmatic and mediastinal); diaphragmatic peritoneum, fibrous pericardium
  • Motor: diaphragm