The Facial Nerve [CN VII] | Structure, Function, & Major Branches

The video tutorial provides an in-depth exploration of cranial nerve VII, known as the facial nerve. It covers the nerve's origin in the pons, its path through the geniculate ganglion, and its branches, including the greater petrosal nerve and the posterior auricular nerve. The tutorial explains the facial nerve's exit through the stylomastoid foramen and its bifurcation into anterior and posterior branches. The anterior branch's journey through the parotid gland and its five main branches—temporal, zygomatic, buccal, marginal mandibular, and cervical—are detailed. The video also distinguishes between facial and mastication muscles, highlighting the different innervations by the facial and trigeminal nerves.

How does the facial nerve interact with the parotid gland?

What mnemonic can be used to remember the branches of the facial nerve?

What is the role of the marginal mandibular branch of the facial nerve?