Creating a comparative map of the facial nerve: A cadaveric study (LB19)

Abstract

This study will explore the facial nerve through detailed dissection of the left and right sides of a male and female cadaver with respect to major facial landmarks. A map will be created using qualitative analysis in order to compare the position and variability of the nerve branches. A photo expose will demonstrate the dissections and the comparative map in order to gain a better appreciation for the location, functionality, and importance of the nerve.The facial nerve (CNVII), controls the muscles involved in facial expression, aids in the perception of taste and is involved in the production of tears. The facial nerve is composed of 10,000 neurons, 7,000 of which are directly involved in the expression of emotion. CNVII exits the skull through the stylomastoid foramen and from there, branches into five distinct rami under the parotid gland. The frontal branch controls the movement and expression of the forehead. The zygomatic branch is involved in ear movement. The buccal branch controls the movement of the upper lip, nostril, and corner of the mouth. The marginal mandibular branch is involved in depression of the lower lip and chin. And finally, the cervical branch controls the chin muscles and superficial neck muscles.Grant Funding Source: none