title: The superficial neurovasculature of the head and neck.
abstract: The majority of dermatologic procedures are performed in the sun-damaged regions of the head and neck. These regions have special cosmetic and functional importance, and dermatologists should become familiar with the underlying structures. Even though all the major nerves and vessels arborize below the superficial fascia, cutaneous atrophy and fibrosis from previous surgeries can make these neurovascular structures susceptible to damage from superficial procedures. Hence, it is advisable to utilize blunt dissection whenever possible, and to identify vital structures when working in their vicinity.
authors.affiliation: Southern California Permamente Medical Group, Department of Dermatology, Panorama City 91402.
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Otani
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Otani
authors.forename: K C
authors.initials: KC
authors.lastname: Carlson
mesh_terms: D001158:Arteries / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D002572:Cervical Plexus / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D005154:Facial Nerve / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D006257:Head / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000294:innervation*; D006801:Humans; D009046:Motor Neurons / Q000166:cytology; D009333:Neck / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000294:innervation*; D009475:Neurons, Afferent / Q000166:cytology; D012867:Skin / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000294:innervation*; D014276:Trigeminal Nerve / Q000033:anatomy & histology