Duplicated Hering's nerves with formation of unusual neural loop

Abstract

The carotid sinus nerve (CSN) originates from the glossopharyngeal nerve, and consists of afferent fibers responsible for mediating the baroreceptor reflex. This case study provides the first report of a neuronal loop linking the glossopharyngeal nerve to the vagus nerve, and supplying dual innervation to the CSN. Although few anatomical studies exist on the nerve, anatomical variations of the CSN have been documented, and may be clinically relevant in procedures with close proximity to this nerve. Keywords: Carotid sinus nerve, Anatomy, Glossopharyngeal nerve, Vagus nerve, Hering's nerve