Zygomaticofacial foramen

Zygomaticofacial foramen is a small opening in the zygomatic bone of the human skull. It is located on the lateral surface of the bone and transmits the zygomaticofacial nerve and vessels.

Etymology

The term "zygomaticofacial foramen" is derived from the Greek words "zygon" (yoke) and "prosopon" (face), referring to the yoke-shaped bone of the face, and the Latin word "foramen" (hole), referring to the opening in the bone.

Anatomy

The zygomaticofacial foramen is located on the lateral surface of the zygomatic bone, which forms the prominence of the cheek and part of the lateral wall and floor of the orbit. The foramen transmits the zygomaticofacial nerve, a branch of the maxillary nerve, and the accompanying vessels.

The zygomaticofacial foramen is one of several foramina in the zygomatic bone, others include the zygomaticotemporal foramen and the zygomaticoorbital foramen. These foramina transmit nerves and vessels that supply the skin and muscles of the face.

Clinical significance

Knowledge of the location and anatomy of the zygomaticofacial foramen is important in various surgical procedures involving the face and skull, such as zygomatic arch fracture repair, zygomatic implant placement, and facelift surgery. Damage to the zygomaticofacial nerve during these procedures can result in sensory loss or pain in the cheek area.

See also

• Zygomatic bone
• Zygomatic arch
• Zygomatic nerve
• Maxillary nerve
• Facial skeleton

References

Zygomaticofacial foramen Resources
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