Meningeal branch of the mandibular nerve

The meningeal branch of the mandibular nerve (also known as the nervus spinosus) is a sensory branch of the mandibular nerve (CN V3). It arises in the infratemporal fossa and reenters the middle cranial fossa through either the foramen spinosum or foramen ovale. The nerve innervates portions of the meninges of this fossa as well as the mastoid air cells. The meningeal branch of the mandibular nerve is clinically relevant in conditions involving meningeal irritation and in surgical procedures that involve the middle cranial fossa or adjacent structures.