The , also known as cranial nerve VI (CN VI) , is a motor nerve primarily responsible for outward eye movement. It innervates the lateral rectus muscle , which pulls the eye laterally toward the temple in a movement called abduction . Key Anatomy and Course
It arises from the abducens nucleus in the pons of the brainstem. abducens nerve
Finally, it enters the eye socket through the superior orbital fissure to reach the lateral rectus muscle. Abducens Nerve: What It Is, Function, Location & Conditions The , also known as cranial nerve VI
The abducens nerve has one of the longest and most vulnerable intracranial paths of all cranial nerves. Finally, it enters the eye socket through the
It leaves the brainstem at the junction of the pons and the medulla (pontomedullary junction).
It passes through the cavernous sinus , running alongside the internal carotid artery.