What nerve passes through the hypoglossal canal?

The nerve that passes through the hypoglossal canal is the hypoglossal nerve. This is a cranial nerve responsible for the motor control of the muscles of the tongue, which is essential for speech and swallowing. The hypoglossal canal is a small bony canal located in the occipital bone and provides a passage for the hypoglossal nerve as it exits the cranial cavity to innervate the tongue muscles.

The hypoglossal nerve is specifically designated as cranial nerve XII and is unique because it primarily functions in motor activities, distinguishing it from the other nerves listed. The anatomical significance of its pathway through the hypoglossal canal underscores its role in tongue movement, which is crucial for vital activities, including articulating speech and manipulating food during chewing.

Understanding the function and pathway of the hypoglossal nerve is important for surgical procedures involving the cervical region or conditions that might affect tongue mobility. The other nerves mentioned do not pass through this specific bony canal, each having their own distinct exits from the skull and different functional roles.