The trigeminal nerve exits the skull through three foramina. Which of the following correctly pairs the division of the trigeminal nerve with its exit foramen?

Explanation

## Trigeminal Nerve Divisions and Foramina of Exit **Key Point:** Each division of the trigeminal nerve (CN V) has a distinct exit point from the cranial vault: | Division | Foramen | Contents | |----------|---------|----------| | V1 (Ophthalmic) | Superior orbital fissure | Lacrimal, frontal, nasociliary, trochlear branches | | V2 (Maxillary) | Foramen rotundum | Infraorbital, zygomatic, pterygopalatine branches | | V3 (Mandibular) | Foramen ovale | Auriculotemporal, buccal, lingual, inferior alveolar branches | **High-Yield:** The foramen ovale is the largest of the three foramina and transmits the mandibular division (V3) along with the accessory meningeal artery and lesser petrosal nerve. **Mnemonic:** **SOF-ROF-OF** = Superior Orbital Fissure (V1), Rotundum (V2), Ovale (V3). **Clinical Pearl:** Foramen lacerum is a clinically insignificant foramen that transmits only the greater petrosal nerve and meningeal artery — it does NOT transmit any division of the trigeminal nerve.