All of the following nerves supply auricle of ear EXCEPT?
**Core Concept:**
The auricle of the ear, also known as the pinna, is the visible part of the ear that protrudes from the head. It is primarily supplied by the auricular branch of the auriculotemporal nerve (V3), the auriculocephalic nerve, and the posterior auricular nerve. These nerves are sensory supply for the pinna.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
The correct answer is "D." The auricular branch of the facial nerve (VII) is not responsible for supplying the auricle of the ear. This branch is primarily involved in facial motor function, and its sensory fibers innervate the skin of the face.
The other options are incorrect for different reasons:
A. The auricular branch of the trigeminal nerve (V) supplies the skin of the pinna, but it also includes motor fibers for the muscles of mastication, which makes it incorrect.
B. The posterior auricular nerve (C2-3) supplies the skin of the posterior part of the auricle, but not the anterior part, making it incorrect for the entire pinna.
C. The auriculotemporal nerve (C2-4) supplies the skin of the pinna, including the anterior and posterior parts, but does not supply the mastoid process or the tympanic membrane, making it incorrect for these areas.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. The auricular branch of the trigeminal nerve (V) supplies the skin of the pinna but also contains motor fibers for the muscles of mastication, making it incorrect.
B. The posterior auricular nerve (C2-3) supplies the skin of the posterior part of the auricle, but not the anterior part, making it incorrect for the entire pinna.
C. The auriculotemporal nerve (C2-4) supplies the skin of the pinna, including the anterior and posterior parts, but does not supply the mastoid process or the tympanic membrane, making it incorrect for these areas.
**Clinical Pearl:**
The pinna is supplied by the three nerves mentioned above: the auricular branch of the trigeminal nerve, the auriculotemporal nerve, and the posterior auricular nerve. These nerves are essential for understanding the anatomy and physiology of the skin supply to the pinna, which is crucial for clinical practice in general surgery and otorhinolaryngology.