Submandibular ganglion

Submandibular Ganglion

The Submandibular Ganglion is a peripheral, autonomic ganglion located in the head and neck region, specifically in relation to the submandibular gland. It is part of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which is responsible for the involuntary functions of the body. This ganglion is primarily involved in the innervation of the salivary glands, particularly the submandibular and sublingual glands, playing a crucial role in the process of salivation.

Structure

The Submandibular Ganglion is a small, ovoid structure situated near the duct of the submandibular gland, lying close to the posterior border of the mylohyoid muscle. It is suspended by two nerve filaments from the lingual nerve, which is a branch of the mandibular nerve (V3), itself a division of the trigeminal nerve (CN V). Despite its close anatomical relationship, the lingual nerve does not provide the ganglion with fibers for salivation. Instead, these fibers originate from the chorda tympani, a branch of the facial nerve (CN VII), which carries preganglionic parasympathetic fibers to the ganglion.

Function

The primary function of the Submandibular Ganglion is to mediate the secretion of saliva from the submandibular and sublingual glands. It does so by receiving preganglionic parasympathetic fibers from the chorda tympani. These fibers synapse within the ganglion, and the postganglionic fibers then innervate the salivary glands. The process is modulated by the release of neurotransmitters, primarily acetylcholine (ACh), which binds to receptors on the glandular cells, stimulating the production and release of saliva.

Clinical Significance

Disorders affecting the Submandibular Ganglion can lead to various clinical manifestations, including disturbances in salivation. For instance, damage to the lingual nerve or chorda tympani can result in decreased salivary flow, leading to xerostomia (dry mouth). Conversely, overactivity of the ganglion can cause excessive salivation, known as sialorrhea. Additionally, the ganglion may be involved in certain types of neuralgia and pain syndromes related to the head and neck.

See Also

• Autonomic Nervous System
• Salivary Glands
• Trigeminal Nerve
• Facial Nerve