Anomalous relationship of the facial nerve and the retromandibular vein: A case report

Abstract

A major challenge encountered in surgery of the parotid gland is the identification and protection of the facial nerve. Successful removal of a parotid neoplasm with the oncologically appropriate preservation of the facial nerve requires a thorough understanding of the anatomy of the facial nerve. Although the course of the facial nerve is relatively constant within the parotid gland, surgeons must be familiar with possible anatomic variations that place the facial nerve at higher risk during parotid surgery. A case with such anatomic variation is presented, with a review of the literature on anatomic anomalies of the extracranial facial nerve.