Image Based Question-65129

Which of the following cranial nerve travels through this structure(marked with blue) in the base of the skull?

A. 3rd branch of trigeminal nerve

B. Abducens nerve

C. Facial nerve

D. Glossopharyngeal nerve

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Correct Answer » D Explanation

Ans;D. Glossopharyngeal nerve

Markesd stucture is Jugular Foramen

Glossopharyngeal nerve travel through the middle compartment of the jugular foramen. Jugular foramen is formed by the petrous portion of the temporal and occipital bones.

Jugular Foramen:

1. Anterior part: Inferior Petrosal Sinus

2. Middle part:

• CN IX (Glossopharyngeal nerve)
• CN X (Vagus nerve)
• CN XI (Accesory nerve)
• Meningeal branch of Ascending Pharyngeal Artery

3. Posterior part:

• Internal Jugular vein (IJV) – Sigmoid sinus junction
• Emissary vein (Sigmoid sinus to occipital vein)
• Occipital artery