Parotid Gland and Facial Nerve dissection - Erler Zimmer

Parotid Gland and Facial Nerve dissection - Erler Zimmer

This 3D model offers a surface dissection view of the lateral aspect, showcasing the anatomy of the parotid gland in relation to surface landmarks and neurovascular structures. These structures hold particular importance in Mohs surgery for skin cancer management and certain plastic and reconstructive surgical procedures.
The dissected window extends from the region just in front of the external ear, encompassing the area from the level of the zygomatic arch to the angle of the mandible. It extends from the anterior edge of the masseter muscle to the origin of the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Within this window, you can observe the majority of the parotid gland, with the upper parts of the gland removed to reveal the superficial temporal artery and the facial nerve branching into its superior terminal branches, such as the temporal, zygomatic, and buccal branches. The parotid duct can be seen traversing the dissected area before continuing toward the buccal region, where it terminates into the buccinator muscle. Additionally, an ascending branch of the great auricular nerve can be identified along the lower and posterior borders of the parotid gland, situated just anterior to the sternocleidomastoid muscle.