The nerve of the pterygoid canal (Vidian nerve) traverses the foramen lacerum region to reach the pterygopalatine fossa. Which combination of autonomic fibres does it carry?

• A Preganglionic parasympathetic fibres only
• B Preganglionic parasympathetic fibres and postganglionic sympathetic fibres ✓
• C Postganglionic sympathetic fibres only
• D Postganglionic parasympathetic fibres and preganglionic sympathetic fibres

Explanation

The Vidian nerve forms where the greater petrosal nerve, carrying preganglionic parasympathetic fibres from the superior salivatory nucleus, joins the deep petrosal nerve, carrying postganglionic sympathetic fibres from the superior cervical ganglion via the internal carotid plexus. These fibres pass to the pterygopalatine ganglion, where only the parasympathetic component synapses; sympathetic fibres continue onward to nasal, palatal and lacrimal targets. No sympathetic synapse occurs in this ganglion, ruling out option D.

Reference: Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice, 42nd ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.