Structure not injured in submandibular gland excision ?
**Core Concept**
The submandibular gland is located below the mandible and is surrounded by several vital structures, including the lingual nerve, hypoglossal nerve, and the mylohyoid nerve. During surgical excision of the submandibular gland, the surgeon must carefully identify and preserve these structures to avoid postoperative complications.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The lingual nerve, a branch of the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve (V3), is responsible for transmitting sensory information from the anterior two-thirds of the tongue. During submandibular gland excision, the lingual nerve is at risk of injury due to its proximity to the gland. However, the mylohyoid nerve, a branch of the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve (V3), is generally not at risk during this procedure. The mylohyoid nerve primarily innervates the mylohyoid muscle, which forms the floor of the mouth.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** The lingual nerve is actually at risk during submandibular gland excision and is not the correct answer.
**Option B:** The hypoglossal nerve, which innervates the tongue, is also at risk during this procedure and is not the correct answer.
**Option C:** The facial nerve, which is responsible for controlling facial expressions, is not typically at risk during submandibular gland excision, but it is not the correct answer either.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
During submandibular gland excision, the surgeon must carefully identify and preserve the lingual nerve to avoid postoperative numbness or tingling of the tongue.
**Correct Answer:** C.