The nerve of the pterygoid canal (Vidian nerve) carries which functional fiber components?

• A Preganglionic parasympathetic and general somatic afferent
• B Postganglionic parasympathetic and somatic motor fibers
• C Special visceral efferent and preganglionic parasympathetic
• D Preganglionic parasympathetic and sympathetic (deep petrosal) fibers ✓

Explanation

The Vidian nerve is formed by the union of the greater petrosal nerve (preganglionic parasympathetic from CN VII's geniculate ganglion) and the deep petrosal nerve (postganglionic sympathetic from the internal carotid plexus). It travels through the pterygoid canal to reach the pterygopalatine ganglion, where the parasympathetic fibers synapse. The sympathetic fibers pass through without synapsing.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.