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Facial nerve danger zone in dermatologic surgery: temporal branch
Erin Dahlke1, Christian A Murray
1Division of Dermatology, Women's College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON.
Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery
|April 12, 2011
Summary
Understanding facial nerve (CN VII) anatomy is crucial for skin surgery. The temporal branch
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Facial Nerve Anatomy
Background:
- Cranial nerve 7 (CN VII), the facial nerve, provides motor innervation to facial muscles.
- The temporal branch of the facial nerve specifically innervates the frontalis muscle, responsible for eyebrow elevation.
Observation:
- This case highlights the critical importance of understanding facial nerve anatomy in skin surgery.
- Surgical procedures in the facial region carry a risk of iatrogenic injury to the facial nerve branches.
Findings:
- Review of the surgical anatomy of the temporal branch of the facial nerve.
- Discussion of clinical considerations and preventative measures against nerve damage during skin surgery.
Implications:
- Emphasizes the need for meticulous surgical technique to avoid facial nerve injury.
- Informed surgical practice can prevent complications like eyebrow ptosis and facial asymmetry.
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