What is another name for the sinuvertebral nerve?

What is another name for the sinuvertebral nerve?

• A. Dorsal ramus
• B. Recurrent meningeal nerve
• C. Gray ramus communicans
• D. Splanchnic nerve

Answer: (B)

The sinuvertebral nerve is also known as the recurrent meningeal nerve because it leaves the spinal nerve to supply the surrounding structures, then re-enters the vertebral canal through the intervertebral foramen to innervate the dura mater and related meninges. This returning course gives it the name “recurrent.” It carries sensory fibers to the dural sac and some ligaments, and can include autonomic fibers as well. Other options describe different structures (dorsal ramus to the back muscles and skin, gray ramus communicans as a sympathetic link to spinal nerves, splanchnic nerves to prevertebral ganglia), which is why the recurrent meningeal nerve is the correct term.

The sinuvertebral nerve is also known as the recurrent meningeal nerve because it leaves the spinal nerve to supply the surrounding structures, then re-enters the vertebral canal through the intervertebral foramen to innervate the dura mater and related meninges. This returning course gives it the name “recurrent.” It carries sensory fibers to the dural sac and some ligaments, and can include autonomic fibers as well. Other options describe different structures (dorsal ramus to the back muscles and skin, gray ramus communicans as a sympathetic link to spinal nerves, splanchnic nerves to prevertebral ganglia), which is why the recurrent meningeal nerve is the correct term.