Variability of the longest axis of the elliptical cross section of the trigeminal nerve at the pons (broken line) to the longitudinal axis of the body (solid line). The long axis of most nerves makes a 40- to 50-degree angle with the longitudinal axis of the body (A); however, this can vary from 10 degrees (C) to 80 degrees (B). In B, the third division is almost directly lateral to the first division, and in C, it is almost directly caudal. (Images courtesy of AL Rhoton, Jr.)