Nerves of pterygopalatine fossa (Latin)

Within the fossa pterygopalatina, branches which arise directly from the n. maxillaris include the rr. ganglionici pterygopalatini (of which there are usually two) and n. zygomaticus. Branches associated with the ggl. pterygopalatinum include the n. nasopalatinus, nn. nasales posteriores superiores, nn. palatini (major/minor) and n. pharyngeus, as well as 2-3 rr. orbitales. Parasympathetic and sympathetic fibers are delivered to the ggl. pterygopalatinum via the n. canalis pteryogidei (derived from the n. petrosus major (n. facialis) and n. petrosus profundus (plexus caroticus internus), respectively). Postganglionic fibers are then distributed within the aforementioned ganglionic branches of the n. maxillaris to regulate secretomotor and vascular responses in the gl. lacrimalis as well as mucous membranes of the nasal cavity, naso/oropharynx, and upper oral cavity. While the n. nasopalatinus and n. palatini mainly convey sensory impulses, they also carry special visceral afferent (taste) fibers from the palate to the ggl. pterygopalatinum; these fibers continue to the n. facialis via the n. canalis pterygoidei.