Quantitative study of the myelinated fibers in the communicating branch between the hypoglossal and lingual nerves in man.

The present study assessed the number and diameter of myelinated fibers in the communicating branch between the hypoglossal and lingual nerves in man, with a view toward correlating their diameters with possible functions. In four cases, a mean of 806 (SD: 227 - minimum: 637 - maximum: 1127) myelinated fibers were counted in the communicating branch. Diameters ranged between 1 and 17 microns, and the frequency distribution was represented by a bimodal curve with peaks at 3-5 microns.