Zygomaticofacial nerve

Zygomaticofacial nerve is a branch of the Zygomatic nerve, which is itself a branch of the Maxillary nerve (the second division of the Trigeminal nerve). The Zygomaticofacial nerve is responsible for providing sensory innervation to the skin on the prominence of the cheek, also known as the Zygomatic bone or cheekbone.

Etymology

The term "Zygomaticofacial nerve" is derived from the Greek words "zygon", meaning yoke, and "maitikos", meaning pertaining to the cheek. The term "nerve" is derived from the Latin word "nervus", meaning sinew or cord.

Anatomy

The Zygomaticofacial nerve arises in the orbit from two roots, a lateral and a medial, which join to form a single trunk. After giving off a few small branches to the Lacrimal gland and Lacrimal sac, the nerve passes through the Zygomaticofacial foramen in the Zygomatic bone to reach the face. Here, it divides into several branches that supply the skin over the prominence of the cheek.

Clinical significance

Damage to the Zygomaticofacial nerve can result in loss of sensation in the area of the face it supplies. This can occur due to trauma, surgery, or disease processes such as Bell's palsy or Trigeminal neuralgia. In some cases, the nerve may be intentionally cut during certain types of facial surgery to prevent complications such as Hemifacial spasm.

Related terms

• Zygomatic nerve
• Maxillary nerve
• Trigeminal nerve
• Zygomatic bone
• Orbit
• Lacrimal gland
• Lacrimal sac
• Bell's palsy
• Trigeminal neuralgia
• Hemifacial spasm

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