Anatomy and Histology of Sensorimotor Connections Between the Facial and Trigeminal Nerve in the Buccinator Muscle.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Despite indications of a close interaction between the trigeminal (CN V) and facial nerve (CN VII) within the buccinator muscle, a combination of anatomical dissection and histological analysis has not been reported.

Methods

Five formalin-fixed and fresh-frozen hemifaces were dissected to reveal the buccal fat pad, the buccinator muscle, and anastomotic connections between CN V and CN VII within it. Samples were taken for histological processing and immunostaining.

Results

Branches of CN V and CN VII formed pronounced sensorimotor anastomotic connections in and surrounding the buccinator muscle. These findings were histologically evident with close intramuscular coupling of sensory and motor fibers. There was an evident but gradual shift from motor to senso

SUBMITTER: Mohanty AJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11816563 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature