Which three branches does the trigeminal nerve include?
Oct 12, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
The ophthalmic nerve refers to the region of the forehead above the eyelids and is the first branch of the trigeminal nerve, serving as a general somatic sensory nerve. The maxillary nerve refers to the area below the eyelids and above the lips; it is the second branch of the trigeminal nerve and a sensory nerve. The mandibular nerve refers to the region below the lips, is a mixed nerve, and constitutes the third and largest branch of the trigeminal nerve.
Under normal circumstances, the trigeminal nerve includes the ophthalmic nerve, maxillary nerve, and mandibular nerve.
1. Ophthalmic nerve: This primarily refers to the area above the eyelids, including the forehead. It is the first branch of the trigeminal nerve and a general somatic sensory nerve. The ophthalmic nerve further divides into the frontal nerve, lacrimal nerve, and nasociliary nerve. It mainly innervates structures within the orbit, conjunctiva, eyeball, lacrimal gland, and skin of the dorsum of the nose, primarily responsible for sensory functions related to the eye.
2. Maxillary nerve: This primarily refers to the region below the eyelids and above the lips. It is the second branch of the trigeminal nerve and a purely sensory nerve. It typically exits the skull through the foramen rotundum and can be divided into four segments: intracranial, pterygopalatine, orbital, and facial. It is primarily responsible for sensation, including pain, from the upper posterior teeth. The maxillary nerve is generally smaller than the mandibular nerve.
3. Mandibular nerve: This primarily refers to the area below the lips. It is a mixed nerve and the third and largest branch of the trigeminal nerve. It exits the skull through the foramen ovale and divides into multiple branches, governing both motor functions such as mastication and sensory functions in the lower part of the face.
