superior ganglion of vagus

The superior ganglion of the vagus nerve is a sensory ganglion containing cell bodies of general somatic afferent fibers. It is located within the jugular foramen as the vagus nerve (CN X) exits the skull. The vagus nerve is the longest and most complex of the cranial nerves, extending from the brain through the thorax to the abdomen. It contains parasympathetic fibers and has extensive distribution throughout the body, innervating structures from the eardrum to internal abdominal organs. The superior ganglion specifically receives sensory input from the external auditory canal and dura mater, as well as taste information from the tongue's root and epiglottis.12