A 20-year-old man is admitted to the emergency department with a stab wound in the superior region of his neck. A radiographic examination reveals that the wound has not affected any major structures. Physical examination reveals that the patient has lost sensation from the skin over the angle of the jaw. Which of the following nerves is most likely injured?

## **Core Concept**
The question tests knowledge of the sensory innervation of the neck and the distribution of various nerves in this region. The area over the angle of the jaw is typically innervated by the **great auricular nerve**, a branch of the cervical plexus.

## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The great auricular nerve originates from the cervical plexus, specifically from the C2 and C3 spinal nerves. It provides sensory innervation to the skin over the parotid gland, the angle of the jaw, and the mastoid region. Injury to this nerve would result in the loss of sensation in its distribution area, which matches the patient's symptoms.

## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** The **transverse cervical nerve** provides sensory innervation to the anterior region of the neck, not the area over the angle of the jaw.
* **Option B:** The **supraclavicular nerve** provides sensory innervation to the skin over the clavicle and the upper chest, not the area over the angle of the jaw.
* **Option D:** The **auriculotemporal nerve** provides sensory innervation to the temple, the external auditory meatus, and parts of the auricle, but not the skin over the angle of the jaw.

## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that the **great auricular nerve** is at risk of injury in neck trauma, particularly stab wounds to the superior region of the neck, due to its superficial location. Damage to this nerve can lead to numbness or paresthesia over the angle of the jaw.

## **Correct Answer:** C. Great Auricular Nerve

✓ Correct Answer: C. Great auricular