AAS ›› 2013, Vol. 44 ›› Issue (5 ): 665-669.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.0529-1356.2013.05.016

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Microscopic anatomical landmarks of the middle ear for the localization of the facial nerve

CAI Zhi-yi LI Zhi-hai TAO Bao-hong JIN Qiao-zhi CHU Hong-juan YE Hua-fu*   

  1. Department of Otolaryngology, Zhejiang Taizhou Municipal Hospital, Zhejiang Taizhou 318000,China
  • Received:2012-06-08 Revised:2012-07-01 Online:2013-10-06 Published:2013-10-06

Abstract:

Objective To observe the microdissection structure of the facial nerve in middle ear surgery and to clarify its clinical significance.Methods Microdissection was performed on 30 Chinese adult wet skulls via the transmastoid approach.The location of the facial nerve was identified by its stationary anatomic landmarks nearby. Resules The distances of both ends of the mastoid segment of the facial nerve to the imaginary line of the position were (-0.11±0.36)mm and (-0.14±0.38)mm, respectively. The lower edge of the tympanic segment of the facial nerve to the imaginary line of position was (0.31±0.12)mm. The trailing edge of short limb of incus to the lower edge of the lateral semicircular canal was (1.73±0.24)mm. The lateral semicircular canal and the trailing edge of short limb of incus to the upper edge of cavity segment of facial nerve were (2.65±0.25)mm and (2.20±0.41)mm, respectively. The upper edge of stirrup bone to the horizontal segment of facial nerve was (2.24±0.23 )mm. Conclusion Important anatomic landmarks for middle ear surgery include the lateral semicircular canal, short limb of incus, incustympanic ring, digastric ridge, vestibular, cochleariform process, oval window, pyramidal eminence, and chorda tympani nerve. These structures are closely related with the facial nerve. Thus, these anatomical features may paly an important role in localizing the facial nerve, avoiding iatrogenic injury, and improving operative quality.

Key words: Middle ear, Facial nerve, Microdissection, Adult