Lesser auricular nerve
| Lesser auricular nerve | |
|---|---|
| Details | |
| Identifiers | |
| Latin | Nervus auricularis minor |
| Anatomical terminology | |
The lesser auricular nerve originates from the cervical plexus, composed of branches of spinal nerves C2 and C3.
Therefore, the "Great auricular nerve" is incorrectly named "Greater auricular nerve".[1]
The Great auricular nerve runs posteriorly to the ear, and is "greater," since it provides most of the innervation to the ear: the back of the ear, front of the ear and earlobe. The rest is provided by the auriculotemporal nerve, which supplies the skin anterior to the external auditory meatus.
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