Learning Modules - Medical Gross Anatomy
Autonomics of the Head and Neck - Page 12 of 14

    
The otic ganglion story - after the synapse

Postganglionic fibers from the otic ganglion pass into the auriculotemporal nerve, a cutaneous sensory branch of V3. The auriculotemporal nerve passes posteriorly on the medial side of the temporomandibular joint capsule, encircles the middle meningeal artery as it ascends to pass through foramen spinosum, and then curves laterally behind the TMJ capsule to reach the parotid gland. The postganglionic parasympathetic fibers distribute to the parotid gland, where they are secretomotor, causing saliva production.

One fact that may help you remember this: glossopharyngeal nerve innervates the posterior one-third of the tongue AND the third salivary gland, the parotid (the other two are the sublingual and submandibular glands).

Go to Question

Quit