Stensens Duct Anatomy — ORE Part 1 MCQ
Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.
Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.
Reveal the answer and explanation
Correct answer: D — It crosses the lateral surface, then turns medially at the anterior border
Explanation lettering: E = shown as A · D = shown as C · A = shown as D · C = shown as E
**A is correct.** The parotid duct leaves the anterior border of the parotid gland and runs forwards across the lateral surface of the masseter. At the muscle’s anterior border it turns medially, pierces the buccinator and opens into the buccal vestibule in the upper molar region, conventionally opposite the maxillary second molar. B reverses the relevant surfaces and direction of the turn. C is incorrect because the duct does not remain lateral: it turns medially to enter the cheek. D is incorrect because its main course over the masseter is lateral, not medial. E is incorrect because the duct crosses over rather than traverses the masseter itself; it is the buccinator that it pierces.
Reference: Kim H, et al. Facial landmark-based localization of the parotid duct: a cadaveric study with ultrasonographic feasibility assessment. 2026. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41748702/