ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the course of the mandibular branch of the facial nerve and to discuss its clinical significant in the rhytidectomy. Methods The distribution of the mandibular branch was observed in 30 halves of the fifteen candaveric specimens (ten antiseptic cadaveric specimens and five fresh cadaveric specimens). Results The mandibular branch could be divided into the isolated branch type and shared branch type, after it exited from the parotid gland. 63.33 % mandibular branch was found (2.1?0.7) cm superior to the palpable edge of the mandibular bone; 23.33 % mandibular branch was along the edge of the bone; and 13.33 % was found (1.8?0.5)cm inferior to the palpable edge of the bone. Conclusion The distribution of the mandibular branch locates in the area that is a digit superior and inferior to the lower border of the mandibular bone, which arises from the angle of the mandibular bone. The dissection beneath the SMAS-platysma should be with caution of the injury of the ramification of mandibular branch in the anterior border of the masseter muscle.[