The term "nervus auricularis posterior" is used to refer to a nerve that is responsible for providing sensation to the posterior region of the ear. The spelling of this word can be a bit of a challenge due to the presence of several complex sounds. In the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), the sound 'n' is represented by [n], while the sound 'r' is represented by [r]. The sound 'u' is represented by [ʊ], and the sound 's' is represented by [s]. Therefore, the correct pronunciation of this term is [ˈnɜrvəs ɔːrɪˈkjʊlərɪs pɒsˈtɪərɪə].
The nervus auricularis posterior, also referred to as the posterior auricular nerve, is a branch of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) that innervates the skin and muscles of the posterior region of the auricle or external ear.
Anatomically, the nervus auricularis posterior originates from the parotid plexus, a network of nerves located within the parotid gland. It emerges from the gland and courses upwards and posteriorly, penetrating the deep surface of the auricular muscle. As it reaches the region of the auricle, it divides into multiple branches that supply innervation to various structures.
The nervus auricularis posterior provides sensory innervation to the back of the auricle, the scalp behind the ear, and a small portion of the external acoustic meatus or ear canal. This nerve also supplies motor fibers to the occipital belly of the occipitofrontalis muscle, which is responsible for raising the eyebrows and wrinkling the forehead.
Damage or compression of the nervus auricularis posterior may result in symptoms such as pain or numbness in the posterior part of the ear, along with potential motor deficits affecting eyebrow movement. Understanding the anatomy and function of this nerve is crucial in diagnosing and treating any related pathologies or disorders.
Posterior auricular nerve, a branch of the n. facialis, supplying the posterior surface of the auricle.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.