Summary
Temporalis transfers for reanimation in facial palsy have been criticised for the
lack of neural input from a functioning facial nerve. Cross-facial nerve grafting
to the deep temporal nerves may provide a solution. An anatomical study was performed
to further elucidate the deep temporal nerves (DTN) and arteries, examining anatomical
variation and infratemporal distribution.
Seventeen temporalis muscles were dissected from 13 cadavers as part of a BSc project.
The number, branching pattern, length and diameter of DTN were recorded. Arteries
supplying the deep surface of temporalis and their relation to DTN were noted. Six
specimens were processed using Sihler’s staining technique. Arteries were injected
with Iodixanol X-ray contrast medium and radiographs taken. All specimens displayed
a single DTN originating from the anterior branch of V3. A mean of 3 branches was observed. The nerve length was 14.22±3.95 mm. The point of entry of DTN into temporalis showed great consistency. Upon exiting
the infratemporal fossa, the posterior deep temporal artery was deep and posterior
to DTN in 65% of specimens. The branching pattern of DTN can be classified into three
types. The deep arterial supply to temporalis was constant in all specimens.
This study provides an anatomical basis for the planning and execution of cross-facial
nerve grafting to temporalis, and for protection of vital structures. Furthermore,
it helps to clarify inconsistencies in the literature regarding nomenclature of the
nerve branching pattern of the deep temporal nerves.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: December 26, 2011
Accepted:
November 10,
2011
Received:
May 20,
2011
Footnotes
☆Previous presentations: Poster presentation: British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Winter Meeting 2009. Oral presentation: British Association of Clinical Anatomists. Winter Meeting 2010.
Identification
Copyright
© 2011 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
