Abstract
The vagus nerve exits from the jugular foramen in close proximity to the spinal accessory nerve. The vagus nerve lies just caudad to the glossopharyngeal nerve and is superficial to the internal jugular vein. The vagus nerve courses downward from the jugular foramen within the carotid sheath along with the internal jugular vein and internal carotid artery. The vagus nerve contains both motor and sensory fibers. The motor fibers innervate the pharyngeal muscle and provide fibers for the superior and recurrent laryngeal nerves. The sensory portion of the nerve innervates the dura mater of the posterior fossa, the posterior aspect of the external auditory meatus, the inferior aspect of the tympanic membrane, and the mucosa of the larynx below the vocal cords. The vagus nerve also provides fibers to the intrathoracic contents, including the heart, lungs, and major vasculature. Vagus nerve block can be used as a diagnostic, prognostic, or therapeutic maneuver. Vagus nerve stimulation has shown promise in the treatment of intractable seizures.
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