Ophthalmic nerve (CN V1)

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The trigeminal nerve, otherwise known as the 5th cranial nerve (CN V), is a mixed nerve meaning that it is made up of both sensory and motor components. It is formed by three sensory nuclei (mesencephalic/principal sensory/spinal nucleus of trigeminal nerve) and one motor nucleus (motor nucleus of trigeminal nerve). At the level of the pons, efferents of the sensory nuclei merge to form a large sensory root, while those from the motor nucleus continue as a smaller motor root. These roots course anteriorly out of the posterior cranial fossa and travel along the anterior surface of the petrous part of the temporal bone where the sensory root expands to form the trigeminal ganglion, from which arises the three divisions of the trigeminal nerve: the ophthalmic (V1), maxillary (V2) and mandibular nerves (V3). 

The ophthalmic nerve is the most superior branch of the trigeminal ganglion, and provides general somatic afferent (GSA) innervation to structures of the upper portion of the face, nasal cavity and mucosa of paranasal sinuses. It extends from the trigeminal ganglion through the lateral wall of the cavernous sinus where it divides into three main branches (the lacrimal, frontal and nasociliary nerves) all of which pass through the superior orbital fissure. 

Find out more about the pathway, branches and function of the ophthalmic nerve by watching the video below!

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Summary