Peptic Ulcer disease is treated by completing a vagotomy with pyloroplasty. What cranial nerve will be ligated during the procedure?

In the context of a vagotomy with pyloroplasty, the procedure specifically involves the vagus nerve, which is cranial nerve X. Vagotomy is performed to reduce acid secretion in the stomach and thereby treat peptic ulcer disease, and it targets the fibers of the vagus nerve that innervate the gastric region. During the procedure, this cranial nerve is carefully identified and ligated to decrease parasympathetic stimulation to the stomach, which reduces acid production and gastric motility, ultimately aiding in the healing of ulcers.

The other cranial nerves listed pertain to different physiological functions. For instance, cranial nerve VII is involved in facial movements and taste; cranial nerve IX is primarily associated with taste and the pharyngeal muscles; and cranial nerve V is mainly responsible for sensation in the face and motor functions such as biting and chewing. None of these nerves play a direct role in gastric function or are typically ligated during a vagotomy, making cranial nerve X the correct answer to this question.