The Facial Nerve [CN VII] | Structure, Function, & Major Branches

The video tutorial provides an in-depth exploration of cranial nerve VII, known as the facial nerve. It covers the nerve's origin in the pons, its path through the geniculate ganglion, and its branches, including the greater petrosal nerve and the posterior auricular nerve. The tutorial explains the facial nerve's exit through the stylomastoid foramen and its bifurcation into anterior and posterior branches. The anterior branch's journey through the parotid gland and its five main branches—temporal, zygomatic, buccal, marginal mandibular, and cervical—are detailed. The video also distinguishes between facial and mastication muscles, highlighting the different innervations by the facial and trigeminal nerves.

Where does the facial nerve originate from?

• Midbrain

• Pons

• Medulla

• Cerebellum

What is the function of the greater petrosal nerve?

• Innervates the platysma muscle

• Controls the masseter muscle

• Stimulates the lacrimal glands

• Innervates the occipitalis muscle

Through which foramen does the facial nerve exit the cranium?

• Stylomastoid Foramen

• Optic Canal

• Jugular Foramen

• Foramen Magnum

Which muscle is innervated by the posterior auricular nerve?

• Masseter

• Auriculares Posterior

• Temporalis

• Frontalis

What mnemonic helps remember the five main branches of the facial nerve?

• On Old Olympus Towering

• To Zanzibar By Motor Car

• Some Say Marry Money

• Oh Oh Oh To Touch

Which branch of the trigeminal nerve innervates the muscles of mastication?

• Maxillary

• Ophthalmic

• Mandibular

• Facial

What is the primary difference between facial and mastication muscles?

• Mastication muscles are innervated by the trigeminal nerve

• Facial muscles are responsible for chewing

• Mastication muscles are innervated by the facial nerve

• Facial muscles are innervated by the trigeminal nerve