Which branch does NOT enter the parotid gland?

Which branch does NOT enter the parotid gland?

• A. Temporal branch
• B. Zygomatic branch
• C. Buccal branch
• D. Posterior auricular branch

Answer: (D)

The key idea is how the facial nerve branches relate to the parotid gland. The facial nerve exits the skull and, as it traverses the parotid gland, gives rise to its five terminal branches that distribute to the face: temporal, zygomatic, buccal, marginal mandibular, and cervical. These branches enter or travel within the parotid to reach their muscle targets. The posterior auricular branch does not enter the parotid gland. It branches off the facial nerve proximal to the gland and travels posteriorly to supply the occipitalis and auricular muscles. Therefore, it’s the branch that does not enter the parotid gland.

The key idea is how the facial nerve branches relate to the parotid gland. The facial nerve exits the skull and, as it traverses the parotid gland, gives rise to its five terminal branches that distribute to the face: temporal, zygomatic, buccal, marginal mandibular, and cervical. These branches enter or travel within the parotid to reach their muscle targets.

The posterior auricular branch does not enter the parotid gland. It branches off the facial nerve proximal to the gland and travels posteriorly to supply the occipitalis and auricular muscles. Therefore, it’s the branch that does not enter the parotid gland.