Which cranial nerve is associated with epiglottic retroflexion during swallowing?

• A. Vagus nerve (X)
• B. Hypoglossal nerve (XII)
• C. Glossopharyngeal nerve (IX)
• D. Trigeminal nerve (V)

Answer: (B)

Epiglottic retroflexion during swallowing is a laryngeal action controlled by the vagus nerve. The muscles that move the epiglottis and surrounding laryngeal structures are innervated by branches of the vagus—primarily the recurrent laryngeal nerve for many intrinsic laryngeal muscles and the internal branch of the superior laryngeal nerve for the thyroepiglottic area. This coordinated motor input elevates the larynx and pulls the epiglottis back to cover the airway, protecting against aspiration.

The hypoglossal nerve governs tongue movements, which influences bolus manipulation but does not drive epiglottic retroflexion. The glossopharyngeal nerve mainly handles pharyngeal sensation and some pharyngeal muscles, while the trigeminal nerve handles mastication and facial sensation. Therefore, the nerve associated with epiglottic retroflexion is the vagus nerve.