Facial nerve danger zone in dermatologic surgery: temporal branch

J Cutan Med Surg. 2011 Mar-Apr;15(2):84-6. doi: 10.2310/7750.2011.10064.

Abstract

Background: The principal function of cranial nerve 7 (CN VII), the facial nerve, is to provide motor innervation to the muscles of facial expression. The temporal branch of the facial nerve primarily innervates the frontalis muscle, which raises the eyebrow.

Objective: To present a case that illustrates the importance of facial nerve anatomy to skin surgery practice.

Conclusion: The relevant surgical anatomy of the temporal branch is reviewed, as well as clinical practice points around nerve damage in skin surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / surgery*
  • Eyebrows
  • Facial Muscles / innervation
  • Facial Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Facial Nerve / anatomy & histology*
  • Facial Nerve Injuries / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Skin Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Temporal Muscle / innervation