A study of the supraorbital nerve

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Plastic Surgery
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Anatomical descriptions of the supraorbital nerve are often incomplete.
• Illustrations of the supraorbital nerve beyond the orbital rim are frequently inaccurate.
• Understanding the supraorbital nerve is crucial for plastic surgeons to prevent complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a detailed anatomical description of the supraorbital nerve's course and divisions.
• To clarify the sensory distribution of the supraorbital nerve.
• To enhance surgical safety in forehead and facial procedures.

Main Methods:

• Anatomical dissection of the supraorbital nerve in 12 fresh cadaver specimens.
• Selective nerve blocks to determine sensory distribution in 30 living subjects.
• Comparison of superficial and deep divisions of the supraorbital nerve.

Main Results:

• The supraorbital nerve consistently divides into superficial (medial) and deep (lateral) branches beyond the orbital rim.
• The superficial division supplies the forehead and anterior scalp.
• The deep division consistently innervates the frontoparietal scalp and is at risk during forehead lifts.

Conclusions:

• The deep division of the supraorbital nerve has a consistent course and sensory distribution.
• Injury to the deep division during forehead lifts can cause scalp numbness and paresthesia.
• Accurate anatomical knowledge of the supraorbital nerve improves surgical outcomes.