Facial Nerve Paralysis-A Rare Complication of Open Reduction of Zygomaticomaxillary Complex Fractures

Facial nerve paralysis is an unusual formidable complication that can manifest after various maxillofacial surgeries, including open reduction of facial trauma. The branches more predisposed to such injury are the zygomatic and marginal mandibular branches. Zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) fractures are frequently encountered in maxillofacial trauma. The facial nerve has not been described as endangered during ZMC surgery. Paralysis of the buccal branch after ZMC repair with delayed onset has been reported only once. This report describes a patient with immediate facial nerve paralysis after open reduction and internal fixation of an isolated ZMC fracture through an intraoral approach. This is a previously unreported rare complication after ZMC fracture repair that should be discussed as a possibility when obtaining preoperative consent.

Facial anatomy

Dermatologic problems of the face affect both function and aesthetics, which are based on complex anatomical features. Treating dermatologic problems while preserving the aesthetics and functions of the face requires knowledge of normal anatomy. When performing successfully invasive procedures of the face, it is essential to understand its underlying topographic anatomy. This chapter presents the anatomy of the facial musculature and neurovascular structures in a systematic way with some clinically important aspects. We describe the attachments of the mimetic and masticatory muscles and emphasize their functions and nerve supply. We highlight clinically relevant facial topographic anatomy by explaining the course and location of the sensory and motor nerves of the face and facial vasculature with their relations. Additionally, this chapter reviews the recent nomenclature of the branching pattern of the facial artery.

Determination of a safety zone for transbuccal trocar placement: an anatomical study

The identification of a safe and accurate technique for facial incisions for transbuccal approaches to the mandibular angle fractures remains a challenge. An alternative method of safely and accurately placing the buccal skin incision is described in this cadaveric study. Thirty-two dissections were performed on 16 bilateral embalmed adult cadaveric heads. In order to identify a safety zone for transbuccal trocar placement, a triangle shaped zone created by three lines was determined. The branches of the facial nerve in this zone were reflected by sharp and blunt dissections. Of 32 sides, marginal mandibular branch was encountered in 1 and marginal mandibular branch and buccal branch of the facial nerve were found in 2 of the predetermined triangle. In 29 of 32 specimens, the marginal mandibular branch was encountered out of the triangle and deep to the platysma muscles. The triangle determined in the present anatomosurgical study presents an easy identifiable and safe zone for trocar placement.