The parotid (Stensen) duct emerges at the anterior border of the masseter, then pierces which muscle before opening into the vestibule of the mouth?
- A Masseter
- B Medial pterygoid
- C Buccinator ✓
- D Orbicularis oris
Correct answer: C. Buccinator
Explanation
The parotid duct crosses the masseter horizontally, turns sharply medially at its anterior border, pierces the buccinator, and opens on the buccal mucosa opposite the crown of the maxillary second molar tooth. The acute bend at the anterior border of masseter plus the buccinator passage act as valves preventing air being forced into the gland during blowing. Masseter is merely crossed superficially, which kills the closest distractor.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.