Inferior posterior nasal branches of greater palatine nerve

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Inferior Posterior Nasal Branches of Greater Palatine Nerve[edit | edit source]

The greater palatine nerve is a branch of the maxillary nerve, which is itself a branch of the trigeminal nerve. The greater palatine nerve provides sensory innervation to the hard palate, as well as the posterior nasal cavity. It gives rise to several branches, including the inferior posterior nasal branches, which play a crucial role in the innervation of the nasal cavity.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The greater palatine nerve enters the nasal cavity through the greater palatine foramen, which is located on the hard palate. Once inside the nasal cavity, it gives rise to several branches, including the inferior posterior nasal branches. These branches travel posteriorly and inferiorly, supplying sensory innervation to the posterior part of the nasal cavity.

Function[edit | edit source]

The inferior posterior nasal branches of the greater palatine nerve provide sensory innervation to the posterior part of the nasal cavity. This includes the posterior nasal septum, the superior and middle nasal conchae, and the posterior part of the inferior nasal concha. These branches play a crucial role in transmitting sensory information from these areas to the brain.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Damage or dysfunction of the inferior posterior nasal branches of the greater palatine nerve can result in sensory deficits in the posterior part of the nasal cavity. Patients may experience a loss of sensation or altered sensation in the affected areas. This can have implications for the sense of smell, as well as overall nasal function.

In some cases, injury to the greater palatine nerve or its branches may occur during surgical procedures involving the hard palate or nasal cavity. Surgeons must be cautious to avoid damage to these nerves to prevent potential complications.

Internal Links[edit | edit source]

- Greater Palatine Nerve: Provides an overview of the greater palatine nerve and its branches. - Maxillary Nerve: Discusses the maxillary nerve, which gives rise to the greater palatine nerve. - Trigeminal Nerve: Provides information on the trigeminal nerve, which is the parent nerve of the maxillary nerve. - Hard Palate: Describes the anatomy and function of the hard palate, where the greater palatine nerve enters the nasal cavity. - Nasal Cavity: Provides an overview of the nasal cavity, where the inferior posterior nasal branches of the greater palatine nerve are located. - Nasal Septum: Discusses the nasal septum, which is innervated by the inferior posterior nasal branches. - Nasal Conchae: Describes the nasal conchae, including the superior, middle, and inferior conchae, which receive sensory innervation from the inferior posterior nasal branches.

References[edit | edit source]

1. Standring, S. (Ed.). (2016). Gray's anatomy: the anatomical basis of clinical practice. Elsevier Health Sciences.

2. Moore, K. L., Dalley, A. F., & Agur, A. M. (2013). Clinically oriented anatomy. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD