Relationship of the temporofrontal rami of the facial nerve to the fascial layers of the temporal region

Abstract

Background: Historically, dissection of the temporoparietal fascia immediately above the zygomatic arch has been avoided due to the risk of transection of the temporofrontal rami of the facial nerve. Methods: A total of 8 fresh cadaveric hemi-faces have been dissected to investigate the relationship of the temporofrontal rami of the facial nerve to the fascial layers in the temporal region. Results: The relationship of the temporofrontal rami of the facial nerve to the fascial layers in the temporal region is variable, with some deep rami coursing below the parotid-temporal fascia and other superficial rami reaching the temporoparietal fascia before entering the lateral edge of the orbicular..