The tensor tympani muscle is attached to the handle of the malleus and is innervated by which nerve?

• A Facial nerve (VII)
• B Mandibular branch of trigeminal (V3) via medial pterygoid nerve ✓
• C Glossopharyngeal nerve (IX)
• D Chorda tympani

Explanation

Tensor tympani is innervated by the nerve to medial pterygoid, a branch of the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve (V3). It arises from the tensor canal, passes over the cochleariform process, and inserts into the handle of the malleus. The stapedius, by contrast, is innervated by the facial nerve.

Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.