Where does the maxillary division (V2) exit to enter the upper portion of the pterygopalatine fossa?

Where does the maxillary division (V2) exit to enter the upper portion of the pterygopalatine fossa?

• A. Superior orbital fissure
• B. Foramen rotundum
• C. Foramen ovale
• D. Infraorbital foramen

Answer: (B)

The maxillary division reaches the pterygopalatine fossa by passing through the foramen rotundum. This opening in the sphenoid bone serves as the conduit from the middle cranial fossa into the pterygopalatine fossa, placing V2 in the upper part of that space where its branches originate. The superior orbital fissure is for the ophthalmic division, not maxillary; the foramen ovale transmits the mandibular division; the infraorbital foramen is a distal exit for a branch of V2 after it travels through the orbit and infraorbital canal.

The maxillary division reaches the pterygopalatine fossa by passing through the foramen rotundum. This opening in the sphenoid bone serves as the conduit from the middle cranial fossa into the pterygopalatine fossa, placing V2 in the upper part of that space where its branches originate. The superior orbital fissure is for the ophthalmic division, not maxillary; the foramen ovale transmits the mandibular division; the infraorbital foramen is a distal exit for a branch of V2 after it travels through the orbit and infraorbital canal.