Neuroanatomy, Cranial Nerve 10 (Vagus Nerve)

Excerpt

The vagus nerve (cranial nerve [CN] X) is the longest in the body, containing both motor and sensory functions in afferent and efferent regards. The nerve travels widely throughout the body, affecting several organ systems and regions of the body, such as the tongue, pharynx, heart, and gastrointestinal system. Because of the wide distribution of the nerve throughout the body, there are several clinical correlations of the vagus nerve (see Image. Path of the Vagus Nerve).