Connection between V2 and V3 parts of the trigeminal nerve at the internal cranial base

Abstract

Anatomical variations can occasionally result in unexpected findings on physical examination. Here, we report two cases of seemingly unique connections between V2 and V3 parts of the trigeminal nerve. In these two cadaveric specimens, at the foramen ovale, small neural connections, confirmed with histology, were identified joining V2 to specifically, the motor root of V3. The findings of these two cadaveric specimens and the potential clinical ramifications are discussed.