Groove for greater petrosal nerve
Sulcus nervi petrosi majoris
- Latin synonym: Sulcus nervi petrosi superficialis majoris
Definition
The groove for greater petrosal nerve is a bony channel found lateral to the trigeminal impression and the foramen lacerum. From this point, it extends posterolaterally on the front surface of the petrous part of the temporal bone, ending at the opening known as the hiatus for the greater petrosal nerve, or the facial hiatus.
The greater petrosal nerve starts within the facial canal of the petrous bone as a branch of the facial nerve. It exits through the hiatus and travels medially along its groove to reach the foramen lacerum. There, it descends to join the deep petrosal nerve, forming the nerve of the pterygoid canal. The anatomical position and course of the greater petrosal nerve are vital for the conveyance of parasympathetic fibers to the pterygopalatine ganglion, influencing lacrimal and nasal gland secretion.
References
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Text written by Muhammad A. Javaid, MD, PhD © 2024 IMAIOS.
Drake, R.L., Vogl, A.W. and Mitchell, A.W.M. (2009). ‘Chapter 8: Head and Neck’ in Gray’s anatomy for Students. (2nd ed.) Philadelphia PA 19103-2899: Elsevier, pp. 826 & pp. 944.
Standring, S. (2016). ‘Chapter 28: Intracranial region’ in Gray’s anatomy: the anatomical basis of clinical practice. (41st ed.) New York NY: Elsevier, pp. 431.
