Topographic methods to expose the exiting points of supratrochlear, supraorbital, and zygomaticotemporal nerves

Abstract

Background/aim: We evaluated the relations of the exiting points of supratrochlear (STN), supraorbital (SON), and zygomaticotemporal (ZTN) nerves with certain landmarks to provide improved anatomic knowledge. Materials and methods: The twenty-eight hemifaces of 5 fresh frozen and 11 embalmed heads (5 female and 11 male cadavers) were dissected. Distance and angular measurements were made between the exiting points of the nerves to the midline, lateral, and medial canthi. Comparisons of side, sex, and cadaver groups were evaluated.Results: Mean values were determined for all parameters. There was no difference between side measurements. There were significant differences between sexes and cadaver groups regarding STN and lateral canthus in both sides. The angle of the ZTN to the lateral canthus was found to be higher in embalmed cadavers than in fresh frozen ones.Conclusion: This study is the first to supply both distance and angular measurements to reach the exact locations of the nerves. Quantitative and topographic information about the localizations of the STN, SON, and ZTN is crucial for forehead lifting and migraine treatment, as well as for injection and local surgical interventions.