Where are the recording electrodes placed to monitor cranial nerve X?

To monitor cranial nerve X, or the vagus nerve, the appropriate placement of recording electrodes is on the false vocal cords. The vagus nerve has several branches, one of which innervates the muscles that control the vocal cords, and the false vocal cords are a relevant anatomical site that reflects the activity of this nerve during clinical monitoring.

Monitoring from this location allows for the observation of functional activity related to vagal nerve function, which is crucial during surgical procedures involving the neck and thoracic regions. By placing electrodes here, the monitoring can help identify potential nerve damage or dysfunction, allowing for appropriate interventions to be made during surgery.

The other options do not align with the primary functions or anatomical connections of cranial nerve X. The trapezius muscle is primarily innervated by the accessory nerve, the soft palate is innervated by branches of the vagus and glossopharyngeal nerves but is less specific for monitoring, and the tongue is innervated by other cranial nerves, particularly the hypoglossal nerve for motor function. Thus, the placement on the false vocal cords is the most precise and relevant choice for monitoring cranial nerve X.