NERVUS PETROSUS SUPERFICIALIS MAJOR Meaning and
Definition
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The nervus petrosus superficialis major is a major branch of the facial nerve located within the skull. It is a sensory nerve that conveys various messages from the cranial cavity to the ganglion pterygopalatinum, which is a nerve ganglion located near the maxillary nerve.
The nervus petrosus superficialis major can be further broken down into its individual components: the greater superficial petrosal nerve and the deep petrosal nerve. The greater superficial petrosal nerve carries parasympathetic innervation, which controls the production of tears, mucus, and saliva, to the ganglion pterygopalatinum. Conversely, the deep petrosal nerve carries sympathetic innervation, which aids in the regulation of body functions during stressful situations, to the same ganglion.
Together, the two branches of the nervus petrosus superficialis major play a crucial role in coordinating the functions of the autonomic nervous system. They provide the necessary connections between the cranial cavity and facial structures, allowing for the appropriate responses to various stimuli. Dysfunction or damage to the nervus petrosus superficialis major can result in problems with tear production, mucus secretion, and saliva production, leading to issues with ocular dryness, nasal congestion, and oral health.
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Larger superficial petrosal nerve, the motor part of the Vidian nerve, a branch of the geniculate ganglion of the facial nerve, running through the groove on the anterior surface of the pyramid of the temporal bone to the foramen lacerum and the pterygoid canal.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for NERVUS PETROSUS SUPERFICIALIS MAJOR
