Where is the parotid gland located?

The parotid gland is the largest salivary gland, located in the retromandibular (parotid) bed posterior to the mandible's ramus. It extends from the external acoustic meatus above to the carotid triangle below.

What structures pass through the parotid gland?

From superficial to deep, the gland contains the facial nerve (dividing into five branches), the retromandibular vein, and the external carotid artery. These form Patey's faciovenous plane, which separates superficial and deep lobes.

What is the parotid duct and where does it open?

The parotid duct (Stenson's duct) is about 5 cm long, emerging from the gland's anterior border. It runs over the masseter muscle, pierces the buccinator, and opens opposite the upper second molar tooth.

How is the parotid gland innervated?

Innervation includes parasympathetic secretomotor fibers from the glossopharyngeal nerve via the otic ganglion, sympathetic vasomotor fibers from the superior cervical ganglion, and sensory fibers from the auriculotemporal and great auricular nerves.

What are some clinical conditions affecting the parotid gland?

Common conditions include mumps (viral infection causing painful swelling), pleomorphic adenoma (most common benign tumor), Frey's syndrome (gustatory sweating after surgery), and duct stones requiring removal.

How does the parotid gland develop embryologically?

The parotid gland develops from ectoderm during the 6th week of fetal life as an epithelial bud from the oral vestibule. It is the only major salivary gland of ectodermal origin; submandibular and sublingual glands are endodermal.

What is the blood supply to the parotid gland?

Arterial supply comes from the external carotid and superficial temporal arteries. Venous drainage is via the retromandibular and external jugular veins.

Parotid Gland – Anatomy, Facial Nerve & Duct

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