A Clinical and Anatomical Study on the Localization of the Temporal Branch of the Facial Nerve Crossing the Zygomatic Arch

To clarify the path of the temporal branch of facial nerve (TB) crossing the zygomatic arch (ZA). Eighteen fresh adult heads specimens were carefully dissected in the zygomatic region, with the location of TB as well as its number documented. The hierarchical relationship between the temporal branch and the soft tissue in this region was observed on 64 P45 plastinated slices. 1. TB crosses the ZA as type I (21.8 %), type II (50.0 %,), and type III (28.1 %) twigs. 2. At the level of the superior edge of the ZA, the average distance between the anterior trunk of TB and the anterior part of the auricle is symbolscript mm, for the posterior trunk is symbolscript mm. At the level of the inferior edge of the ZA, the average distance between the anterior trunk of TB and the anterior part of the auricle is symbolscript mm, for the posterior trunk is symbolscript mm. 3. The average length of ZA is symbolscript mm. TB crosses the inferior edge of the ZA at an average of symbolscript mm. TB crosses the superior edge of the ZA at an average of symbolscript mm. 4. At the level of the ZA, TB passes on the surface of the pericranium while below the SMAS. The TB obliquely crosses the middle 1/3 part of the superior margin of the ZA and the junction of the middle 1/3 part and the posterior 1/3 part of the inferior margin of the ZA below the SMAS while beyond the periosteum. It is suggested that this area should be avoided in clinical operation to avoid the injury of TB.

Automated summary

The study clarified the path of the temporal branch of facial nerve (TB) as it crosses the zygomatic arch (ZA) through anatomical dissection and observation on plastinated slices. The TB was found to cross the ZA in three types: type I (21.8%), type II (50.0%), and type III (28.1%) twigs. The average distances between the anterior and posterior trunks of TB and the anterior part of the auricle at the superior and inferior edges of the ZA were measured. The study also highlighted the recommended avoidance of this area during clinical operations to prevent TB injury.