Lateral pterygoid nerve
Template:Short description Script error: No such module "Infobox".Template:Template otherTemplate:Main otherScript error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". The lateral pterygoid nerve (or external pterygoid nerve) is a branch of the anterior division of the mandibular nerve.[1] It usually originates as two separate branches that travel near the buccal nerve, and enter the deep surfaces of the superior and inferior heads of the lateral pterygoid muscle.[2]
Nerve pathway
- trigeminal nerve (CN V)
- mandibular nerve (V3)
- anterior division of mandibular nerve
Variation
Some authors describe the lateral pterygoid nerve as a single branch of the anterior division of the mandibular nerve which then bifurcates to enter the two heads of the lateral pterygoid muscle.
References
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