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Bifid Facial Nerve Trunk: Anatomic and Surgical Considerations.
María Fe García Reija1, Julia C Blasco Palacio
1*Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Valdecilla Sur, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Marquecilla, Santander †Oral and Maxillofacilal Surgery Department, Hospital Universitario de Araba, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
|July 19, 2016
Summary
A rare duplication of the facial nerve trunk (FNT) was discovered during surgery. This anatomical variation, where the FNT splits and rejoins, has not been previously documented.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Neurosurgery
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- The facial nerve trunk (FNT) extends from the stylomastoid foramen to the parotid gland.
- Iatrogenic injury to the FNT during head and neck surgeries is a significant concern.
- Identifying the FNT can be challenging due to surrounding connective tissue and anatomical distortions.
Observation:
- During a parotidectomy for a pleomorphic adenoma, an unusual duplication of the FNT was observed.
- The duplicated FNT emerged from the stylomastoid foramen, bifurcated into two main divisions, and then rejoined.
- This duplication occurred before the nerve's entry into the parotid gland.
Findings:
- A previously unreported anatomical variation of the facial nerve trunk was identified.
- The FNT exhibited duplication, splitting into two branches that subsequently merged.
- This finding highlights the potential for anatomical anomalies in the facial nerve pathway.
Implications:
- Awareness of FNT duplication is crucial for surgeons performing procedures in the parotid region.
- This anatomical variation may alter surgical approaches and increase the risk of nerve injury.
- Further studies are needed to determine the prevalence and clinical significance of FNT duplication.
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