The Accessory Nerve: A Comprehensive Review of its Anatomy, Development, Variations, Landmarks and Clinical Considerations.

Anat Rec (Hoboken). 2019 Apr;302(4):620-629. doi: 10.1002/ar.23823. Epub 2018 Apr 23.

Johal J, Iwanaga J, Tubbs K, Loukas M, Oskouian RJ, Tubbs RS.

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Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

The eleventh cranial nerve, the accessory nerve, has a complex and unique anatomy and has been the subject of much debate. Herein, we review the morphology, embryology, surgical anatomy, and clinical manifestations of the accessory nerve. Included in this review, we mention variant anatomy, molecular development, histology, and imaging of the accessory nerve.

CONCLUSIONS:

The accessory nerve continues to be a topic of much discussion regarding its exact function and in particular to its cranial roots. Recently, various surgical procedures have been devised that repurpose the accessory nerve (e.g., lengthening procedures, contralateral neurotization procedures). Currently, we continue to learn and have much to learn about this lower cranial nerve. Anat Rec, 302:620-629, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

© 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

KEYWORDS:

accessory nerve; cranial nerve; sternocleidomastoid; trapezius