Vagus Nerve CNX

Question 1

where does the Vagus nerve CNX originate in the head?

Answer 1

the VN originates from the medulla of the brainstem

Question 2

where does Vagus Nerve CNX exits in the head

Answer 2

VN exits the cranium via the JUGULAR FORAMEN with the glossopharyngeal and accessory nerves (CN IX and XI respectively)

Question 3

What branch arises within the cranium and what does it supply (VN CNX)

Answer 3

within the cranium the AURICULAR BRANCH arises. this supplies sensation to posterior part of the external auditory and canal external ear.

Question 4

In the neck where does the Vagus nerve pass and along with what vessels??

Answer 4

passes into the carotid sheath, travelling inferiorly with the internal jugular vein and common carrotid artery.

Question 5

At the base of the neck describe the differing pathways of the Vagus nerve

Answer 5

RIGHT VAGUS NERVE

1. passes anterior to subclavian artery and posterior to sternoclavicular joint
2. entering thorax

LEFT VAGUS NERVE

1. passes inferiorly btw left common carotid and left subclavian arteries
2. posterior to sternoclavicular joint
3. entering thorax

Question 6

what are 3 of the several branches that arise in the neck of the VN [CNX]

Answer 6

1. PHARYNGEAL BRANCHES: provides motor innervation to man of muscles of pharynx and soft palate
2. SUPERIOR LARYNGEAL NERVE: splits into internal and external branches. Muscle of larynx and sensory innervation to laryngopharynx and superior part of larynx
3. RECURRENT LARYNGEAL NERVE 9right side only in neck ) hooks underneath right subclavian artery then ascends towards larynx. innervates man of intrinsic muscles of larynx