Gross Anatomy USMLE Step 1 Practice Question
A 54-year-old man undergoes left carotid artery surgery. Postoperatively, he presents with difficulty depressing the hyoid bone during swallowing (HR 88 bpm, BP 142/86 mmHg, RR 16, temp 37.2°C). Tongue protrusion and shoulder shrug remain intact. Neck ultrasound shows no hematoma. He denies vocal hoarseness or facial drooping. Which of the following nerves was most likely injured during the surgical procedure?
Answer choices
- AVagus nerve
- BHypoglossal nerve
- CAnsa cervicalisCorrect answer
- DPhrenic nerve
- EAccessory nerve
- FRecurrent laryngeal nerve
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