Erin Dahlke1, Christian A Murray. 1. Division of Dermatology, Women's College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON.
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.
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.