The zygomatic branches of the facial nerve (malar branches) are nerves of the face. They run across the zygomatic bone to the lateral angle of the orbit. Here, they supply the orbicularis oculi muscle, and join with filaments from the lacrimal nerve and the zygomaticofacial branch of the maxillary nerve (CN V₂).

Structure

The zygomatic branches of the facial nerve are branches of the facial nerve (CN VII). They run across the zygomatic bone to the lateral angle of the orbit. This is deep to zygomaticus major muscle. They send fibres to orbicularis oculi muscle.

Connections

The zygomatic branches of the facial nerve have many nerve connections. Along their course, there may be connections with the

buccal branches of the facial nerve The buccal branches of the facial nerve (infraorbital branches), are of larger size than the rest of the branches, pass horizontally forward to be distributed below the orbit and around the mouth. Branches The ''superficial branches'' run beneath ...

. They join with filaments from the lacrimal nerve and the zygomaticofacial nerve from the maxillary nerve (CN V₂). They also join with the

inferior palpebral nerve The Inferior palpebral nerve (inferior palpebral branches) ascend behind the orbicularis oculi. They supply the skin and conjunctiva of the lower eyelid, joining at the lateral angle of the orbit with the facial and zygomaticofacial nerve The zyg ...

and the superior labial nerve, both from the

infraorbital nerve The infraorbital nerve is a branch of the maxillary nerve, itself a branch of the trigeminal nerve (CN V). It travels through the orbit and enters the infraorbital canal to exit onto the face through the infraorbital foramen. It provides sensory ...

Function

The zygomatic branches of the facial nerve supply part of the orbicularis oculi muscle. This is used to close the eyelid.

Clinical significance

Testing

To test the zygomatic branches of the facial nerve, a patient is asked to close their eyes tightly. This uses orbicularis oculi muscle. The zygomatic branches of the facial nerve may be recorded and stimulated with an electrode.

Surgical damage

Rarely, the zygomatic branches of the facial nerve may be damaged during surgery on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Additional images

File:Lateral head anatomy detail.jpg, Lateral head anatomy detail File:Slide1BAB.JPG, Lateral head anatomy detail.Dissection the newborn File:Slide1CAC.JPG, Lateral head anatomy detail.Facial nerve dissection.

References

External links

* - "Branches of Facial Nerve (CN VII)" * () * () * http://www.dartmouth.edu/~humananatomy/figures/chapter_47/47-5.HTM {{Authority control Facial nerve