The temporal branch of the facial nerve was examined in eight cadaver
dissections. Number of rami crossing the zygomatic arch and their Location
with respect to bone and soft-tissue landmarks were estimated. The
temporal branch travelled in a constant plane along the under surface of
the temporoparietal fascia and was superficial as it crossed the zygornatic
arch. Based on these relationships, a safe method of dissection within
the temporal region was formulated. In five cases with retromandibular
parotid neoplasms, the seventh cranial nerve was located through retrograde
exploration of its temporal branch. The decision to resort to the
identification of the temporal branch is supported by its adequate calibre
in its peripheral area, short course, and multiple rani crossing the zygomatic
arch, which enable it to be easily located.
Retrograde or centripetal approach to facial nerve has been found to
be anatomically sound, simple to use and safe. It must be indicated when
artterograde exploration is difficult. |
