Mastication - LO 7
7. What key autonomic ganglia and pathways are associated with the mandibular n. (V3)?
The otic ganglion is closely associated with the trunk of the mandibular n. (V3). The otic ganglion is a parasympathetic ganglion associated in location with the deep portion of the mandibular n. (V3) trunk, just inferior to the foramen ovale. The otic ganglion receives preganglionic parasympathetic fibers from the lesser petrosal n. (glossopharyngeal n. → tympanic n. → lesser petrosal n.). Postganglionic fibers are transmitted to the parotid gland via the auriculotemporal n. (of V3).
The chorda tympani is a branch of the facial n. (CN VII) that enters the infratemporal fossa via the petrotympanic fissure. Its fibers join the lingual n. (a branch of V3) en route to the submandibular ganglion. Postganglionic fibers from the submandibular ganglion innervate the submandibular and sublingual glands. Chorda tympani also conducts special sensation (taste) from the presulcal part (anterior 2/3rds) of the tongue.
