Exit of facial nerve from the skull? – Anatomy MCQ

Facial nerve exits the skull via?
A. Foramen ovale
B. Stylomastoid foramen
C. Foramen rotundum
D. Jugular foramen

Correct answer: B. Stylomastoid foramen

Explanation:

• Facial nerve exits the pons and enters the internal acoustic meatus along with acoustic nerve.
• After traversing a short distance in the facial canal, facial nerve exits the skull via stylomastoid foramen and subdivides to supply the facial muscles.
• Hence, injury to facial nerve at stylomastoid foramen paralyses all muscles of facial expression.