CN X: Vagus Nerve

Question 1

Emerges from?

Answer 1

Medulla, behind olive

Question 2

Exits through?

Answer 2

jugular foramen

Question 3

Parasympathetic function?

Answer 3

• thorax (heart, lungs)
• most of abdomen (digestive system and kidneys)
• left flexure of colon

Question 4

CN X is one of four cranial nerves with parasympathetic functions. What are the other three?

Answer 4

• occulomotor (CN III)
• facial (CN VII)
• glossopharyngeal (CN IX)

Question 5

Motor functions?

Answer 5

• most muscles of pharynx (except stylopharyngeus - CN IX)
• soft palate (except tensor veli palatini - V3 of CN V)
• ALL muscles of the larynx

Question 6

Visceral sensory functions?

Answer 6

• sensory info from thoracic and abdominal viscera

- receptors in aortic arch are transmitted through branches of this nerve

Question 7

Sensory functions?

Answer 7

• general sensory info from larynx, portions of pharynx, and external auditory canal

Question 8

How to test?

Answer 8

• check if uvula is pointing one side or another

- check if trouble swallowing

Question 9

Pathology/disorders

Answer 9

• hoarseness in voice
• dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
• dysphonia (trouble speaking)
• decreased gag reflex

Question 10

What is the colloquial name for the vagus nerve?

Answer 10

“The Wanderer”