ABSTRACT
To define the relations of the mandibular ramus of the facial nerve to the mandible to aid the surgeon in planning approaches to the body and ramus of the mandible. Anatomical study based on the dissection of 100 facial halves. Detailed drawings were made at the time of each dissection of the mandibular ramus and its relation to adjacent structures. The relationship of the mandibular ramus of the facial nerve with the inferior border of the mandible is conveniently divided into its course posterior and anterior to the facial artery. Modern maxillofacial surgical practice encounters the mandibular branch of the facial nerve in numerous instances from limited exposure for open reduction of mandibular fractures through to wide exposure for neck dissections. No specific information is provided regarding inclusion and exclusion criteria, age or sex of the dissected specimen, or the preservation or fixation techniques which can all affect the results.
