A network of intersecting nerves is commonly referred to as a nerve plexus.
A nerve plexus is a complex, interconnected network of nerves that merge and branch out to form pathways. These structures are important because they allow for the redistribution of nerve fibers to supply different regions of the body. You can find several major nerve plexuses in the human body, such as the brachial plexus, which supplies nerves to the upper limb, and the lumbosacral plexus, which supplies the lower limbs.
The formation of these plexuses helps ensure that even if one nerve is injured, surrounding nerves can often compensate, thereby maintaining function in the area served by that plexus. This adaptability is crucial for the nervous system’s ability to respond to injuries and maintain bodily functions.