Nerve
Maxillary nerve (V2)
The trigeminal route through the pterygopalatine fossa
High-yield
Foramen rotundum leads V2 into the pterygopalatine fossa. The infraorbital nerve is its major continuation to the lower eyelid, lateral nose and upper lip.
Overview
V2 leaves the trigeminal ganglion and runs along the cavernous-sinus lateral wall before entering foramen rotundum. In the pterygopalatine fossa, it gives branches to the upper teeth, palate, nasal region and cheek. Its infraorbital continuation enters the orbit through the inferior orbital fissure, crosses the orbital floor and reaches the face through the infraorbital foramen.
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Reference facts
- Origin
- Middle sensory division arising from the trigeminal ganglion
- Course
- Lateral cavernous-sinus wall → foramen rotundum → pterygopalatine fossa; infraorbital continuation through the inferior orbital fissure, infraorbital groove/canal and infraorbital foramen
- Motor
- No trigeminal skeletal-muscle motor fibers. Peripheral branches distribute autonomic fibers from the pterygopalatine ganglion and sympathetic pathways
- Sensory
- Midfacial skin including lower eyelid, cheek, lateral nose and upper lip; upper teeth and gingiva, maxillary sinus, nasal cavity, palate and parts of the nasopharynx
Clinical correlation
Branches of V2 also carry autonomic fibers that originated elsewhere. In the usual lacrimal pathway, postganglionic parasympathetic fibers use the zygomatic branch and a connection to lacrimal V1 to reach the gland. These communications vary between individuals.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the maxillary nerve (V2) arise?
Middle sensory division arising from the trigeminal ganglion.
What muscles does the maxillary nerve (V2) supply?
No trigeminal skeletal-muscle motor fibers. Peripheral branches distribute autonomic fibers from the pterygopalatine ganglion and sympathetic pathways.
What is the sensory distribution of the maxillary nerve (V2)?
Midfacial skin including lower eyelid, cheek, lateral nose and upper lip; upper teeth and gingiva, maxillary sinus, nasal cavity, palate and parts of the nasopharynx.
What is the course of the maxillary nerve (V2)?
Lateral cavernous-sinus wall → foramen rotundum → pterygopalatine fossa; infraorbital continuation through the inferior orbital fissure, infraorbital groove/canal and infraorbital foramen.