OBJECTIVETo validate the previous anatomic study result about angle nerve of facial nerve through 3-dimensional (3-D) visualization technique, so as to provide theory basis for clinic treatment of nerve loss.

METHODThe full-thickness soft tissue at internal side of inner canthus was harvested from adult cadaveric head. The skin was 3 cm in length and 1 cm in width, with 2 parallel cut lines as location markers. The specimen was sliced continuously into 120 slices, with 10 microm in thickness for every slice, 0.25 mm apart. The slices underwent HE staining and 2-D digital image was gained by high resolution scanner. Then 3-D reconstruction was performed.

RESULTS(1) It showed the 3-D structures and routes of angle nerve, as well as the relationship between angle nerve and angle arteriovenous. All the reconstructed structures can be displayed together or separately, also from any angles. (2) It confirmed the accuracy of microscopic anatomy study about angle nerve. (3) The 3-D reconstruction of angle nerve, as well as the surrounding structure could be very useful for clinical application.

CONCLUSIONBased on the histologic study and computer technology, the 3-D reconstruction of angle nerve could provide accurate basis for the feasibility of clinic treatment of angle nerve loss.