Gland
Parotid gland
Serous salivary tissue around the facial nerve branches
High-yield
The usual superficial-to-deep relationship is facial nerve, retromandibular vein, then external carotid artery. Venous and nerve branching variations make this a guide rather than an invariant arrangement.
Overview
The parotid occupies the region in front of and below the ear, extending around the posterior mandibular ramus. Its watery secretion reaches the mouth through a duct crossing masseter and then buccinator. The facial nerve divides within the gland, creating the surgical distinction between superficial and deep portions.
Reference facts
- Location
- Around the posterior mandibular ramus, anterior to the mastoid/sternocleidomastoid region and beneath a fascial sheath.
- Hormones
- An exocrine gland: releases serous saliva through a duct, rather than functioning as a hormone-secreting endocrine gland.
- Blood supply
- External carotid branches, including transverse facial contributions; venous outflow joins the retromandibular system.
- Innervation
- Parasympathetic pathway: IX, tympanic plexus, lesser petrosal nerve, otic ganglion, then auriculotemporal nerve. Sympathetic fibers arrive from the superior cervical ganglion via vessels.
- Function
- Supplies saliva for lubrication, oral protection and starch digestion by amylase.
Mnemonic
At the parotid surface, look for nerve before vein before artery - then allow for variation.
Clinical correlation
Inflammation or duct obstruction may produce painful swelling. Facial weakness accompanying a parotid mass is concerning because the nerve passes through the gland. This same relationship makes preservation of the nerve important during gland surgery.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the parotid gland located?
The parotid gland lies around the posterior mandibular ramus, anterior to the mastoid/sternocleidomastoid region and beneath a fascial sheath.
What does the parotid gland secrete?
An exocrine gland: releases serous saliva through a duct, rather than functioning as a hormone-secreting endocrine gland.
What does the parotid gland do?
Supplies saliva for lubrication, oral protection and starch digestion by amylase.
What is the blood supply of the parotid gland?
External carotid branches, including transverse facial contributions; venous outflow joins the retromandibular system.