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Updated: Feb 13, 2026

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Facial Nerve Surgery in the Rat Model to Study Axonal Inhibition and Regeneration
Published on: May 5, 2020
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Anomalous Extratemporal Facial Nerve in Oculoauriculovertebral Spectrum
Linden K Head1,2, Lisa Xuan1,2, Kirsty U Boyd1,2
11 Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
Facial nerve anomalies are common in oculoauriculovertebral spectrum (OAVS). Early recognition and primary nerve repair can restore near-complete function in cases of iatrogenic facial nerve injury.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Oculoauriculovertebral spectrum (OAVS) frequently involves facial nerve dysfunction.
- The precise anatomical course of the facial nerve in OAVS patients is not well-documented.
- Surgical interventions for OAVS, such as microtic ear remnant excision, carry risks of iatrogenic injury.
Observation:
- A case study involving a 23-year-old woman with OAVS is presented.
- The patient experienced iatrogenic transection of the facial nerve during microtic ear remnant excision.
- The facial nerve's pes anserinus was located subcutaneously, 15 mm posterior and cephalad to the external acoustic meatus.
Findings:
- Primary nerve repair was performed following the iatrogenic transection.
- The patient achieved nearly complete restoration of preoperative facial nerve function post-repair.
- This case highlights the potential for anomalous facial nerve anatomy in OAVS.
Implications:
- Clinicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for aberrant facial nerve pathways in OAVS patients.
- Awareness of potential anatomical variations is crucial for preventing surgical complications.
- This underscores the importance of meticulous surgical planning and execution in OAVS reconstructions.
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