Anatomy of the Vessels and Nerves of the Head and Neck (Angioneurology) - Chornokulskyi S.T. 2009

Nerves of the Head and Neck
Abducens nerve

Abducens nerve [VI], n. abducens (Fig. 27, 28, 32)

The Nucleus of the abducens nerve (nuc. n. abducentis), which is somatomotor, is located in the dorsal part of the Pons and projects onto the facial colliculus of the Rhomboid fossa. Formed by the axons of Neurons from this nucleus, the nerve emerges from the Brain in the bulbopontine sulcus between the pons and the pyramid of the Medulla Oblongata. Continuing forward, much like the III and IV cranial nerve pairs, the nerve pierces the cavernous sinus and runs anteriorly within the thickness of its lateral wall. Passing through the superior orbital fissure, it reaches the lateral rectus Muscle of the Eyeball, which it innervates.

The topography and Anatomical Features of the extraocular motor nerve group (III, IV, and VI pairs) are of clinical significance in the Diagnosis of meningitis, intoxications, botulism, and other conditions, as they are accompanied by damage to these nerves, resulting in paresis and paralysis of the extraocular Muscles (symptomatic strabismus).



Last update: 11/08/2026

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