Motor nerves of the head and neck that are susceptible to damage during dermatological surgery

Abstract

As the incidence of non melanoma skin cancer rises, dermatologists will increasingly be called upon to perform excisions in the head and neck region. Damage to the motor nerves of the head and neck represents an important adverse event for patients, and a source of litigation for surgeons. Understanding the anatomy of this region is key to counselling patients about the possibility of motor nerve injury associated with particular skin surgical procedures. We describe the anatomy of the motor nerves of the head and neck that are most vulnerable to injury during dermatological surgery. The consequences of injury are outlined, and the surface anatomy and anatomical landmarks that may be used to identify the relevant danger zones are described.