The stylopharyngeus muscle is the only pharyngeal muscle NOT innervated by the vagus nerve. Which nerve innervates it?
- A Glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) ✓
- B Facial nerve (CN VII)
- C Hypoglossal nerve (CN XII)
- D Mandibular nerve (V3)
Correct answer: A. Glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX)
Explanation
The stylopharyngeus is innervated by the glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX), derived from the third pharyngeal arch. All other pharyngeal muscles are supplied by the vagus nerve via the pharyngeal plexus. This is a classic discriminating fact. CN VII supplies stylohyoid, CN XII supplies palatoglossus, and V3 supplies muscles of mastication.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd ed.
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