The facial nerve (CN VII) exits the skull through the stylomastoid foramen, located between the mastoid and styloid processes of the temporal bone.

Course summary:

Enters the temporal bone via the internal acoustic meatus (with CN VIII).
Passes through the facial canal.
Exits via the stylomastoid foramen to supply the muscles of facial expression.

Why not the others?
– Foramen ovale: Mandibular nerve (V3).
– Foramen rotundum: Maxillary nerve (V2).
– Jugular foramen: Glossopharyngeal (IX), Vagus (X), and Accessory (XI).
– Internal acoustic meatus: Entry point of CN VII & VIII, not exit.

Through which foramen does the facial nerve exit the skull?