Question

Image below highlights jugular foramen. Which of the following structures do not pass through the marked structure “A”?

• A. Glossopharyngeal nerve
• B. Accessory nerve
• C. Vagus nerve
• D. Hypoglossal nerve

Hint:

Jugular foramen transmits cranial nerves IX, X and XI. Hypoglossal nerve XII passes through the hypoglossal canal.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: The jugular foramen is an opening in the posterior cranial fossa through which important cranial nerves and venous structures pass. The cranial nerves passing through it are IX, X and XI.

Step 1: Recall the contents of jugular foramen.
The jugular foramen transmits: \[ \text{Glossopharyngeal nerve (IX), Vagus nerve (X), Accessory nerve (XI)} \] It also transmits the sigmoid sinus continuing as internal jugular vein.

Step 2: Identify the nerve that does not pass through it.
The hypoglossal nerve is cranial nerve XII. It passes through the hypoglossal canal, not through the jugular foramen.

Step 3: Choose the correct option.
Therefore, the structure that does not pass through the jugular foramen is: \[ \text{Hypoglossal nerve} \]