Gross and microscopic observations on the communicating branch of the facial nerve to the lesser petrosal nerve.

Abstract

AbstractThe contents of the facial canal (first and second parts of the facial nerve, and geniculate ganglion), the tympanic plexus, the greater and lesser petrosal nerves, and all intervening connections were dissected in 40 cadavers. This entire nerve complex was removed in 30 cases, and in parts in ten cases, dehydrated, and stained with Sudan Black B or Protargol. A constant communication from the second part of the facial nerve, the geniculate ganglion, or the greater petrosal nerve was observed to pass to the lesser petrosal nerve in all dissections. A review of the literature indicates other points relative to the exchange of autonomic fibers between the facial and glossopharyngeal nerves.