Final answer:
Surgery on the parotid gland poses a risk to the facial nerve (CN VII), which is responsible for facial expressions, some salivation functions, and taste sensation at the anterior of the tongue.
Step-by-step explanation:
Surgery on the parotid gland carries the risk of damaging the facial nerve (CN VII), which is in close anatomical proximity to the gland. The facial nerve is responsible for controlling the muscles that are involved in facial expressions, as well as some functions of salivation. It's pivotal to note this due to the potential for facial paralysis or weakness as a complication post-operatively if the nerve is inadvertently harmed. Additionally, the facial nerve contains preganglionic parasympathetic fibers and is involved in taste sensation to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue, further highlighting the importance of careful surgical techniques to avoid nerve damage.