The nerve of the pterygoid canal (Vidian nerve) carries which two functional components and from which two nerves does it originate?

• A Preganglionic parasympathetic (from greater petrosal) and sympathetic (from deep petrosal) ✓
• B Postganglionic sympathetic and somatic sensory from CN V2
• C Preganglionic parasympathetic (from lesser petrosal) and sympathetic (from carotid plexus)
• D Visceral afferent from palate and preganglionic parasympathetic from CN VII

Explanation

The Vidian nerve (nerve of pterygoid canal) is formed by the union of the greater petrosal nerve (preganglionic parasympathetic fibers from the superior salivatory nucleus via CN VII) and the deep petrosal nerve (postganglionic sympathetic fibers from the carotid plexus). It travels through the pterygoid canal to the pterygopalatine fossa and synapses in the pterygopalatine ganglion. Postganglionic parasympathetic fibers then supply lacrimal gland, nasal, and palatal glands. Vidian neurectomy was historically used for vasomotor rhinitis.

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

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.