The tensor veli palatini is innervated by which nerve?

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Multiple Choice

The tensor veli palatini is innervated by which nerve?

Explanation:
The tensor veli palatini is innervated by the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve (CN V3) via the nerve to the tensor tympani. This nerve, a branch of V3, travels to the middle ear and then to both the tensor tympani and the tensor veli palatini. The muscle itself tenses the soft palate and helps open the auditory tube during swallowing and yawning, aiding pressure equalization in the middle ear. Most other palatal muscles receive innervation from the vagus nerve (CN X) via the pharyngeal plexus, so the tensor veli palatini’s V3 supply is distinctive.

The tensor veli palatini is innervated by the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve (CN V3) via the nerve to the tensor tympani. This nerve, a branch of V3, travels to the middle ear and then to both the tensor tympani and the tensor veli palatini. The muscle itself tenses the soft palate and helps open the auditory tube during swallowing and yawning, aiding pressure equalization in the middle ear. Most other palatal muscles receive innervation from the vagus nerve (CN X) via the pharyngeal plexus, so the tensor veli palatini’s V3 supply is distinctive.

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