Genioglossus Origin — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateAnatomy (Head & Neck)Genioglossus OriginMFDS Part 1

During surgical planning for genioglossus advancement, the paired mental spines are identified on the lingual surface of the mandibular symphysis. From which structure does the genioglossus originate?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Superior mental spine (superior genial tubercle)

The genioglossus originates from the superior mental spine, also called the superior genial tubercle, on the lingual aspect of the mandibular symphysis. Its fibres fan posteriorly into the tongue and towards the hyoid; contraction principally protrudes the tongue, although different fibre groups have additional actions. The inferior mental spine is the origin of geniohyoid, making option D the most plausible distractor. The styloid process gives origin to styloglossus, the palatine aponeurosis to palatoglossus, and the greater horn of the hyoid to hyoglossus. Therefore, only option C identifies the origin of genioglossus.

Reference: Punjabi N, Vacaru A, Inman JC. 3D Genial Tubercle Anatomic Considerations in Genioglossus Advancement Surgery. Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. 2024;171(5):1572-1579. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39031714/