infraorbital nerve
Pronunciation: in-frah-OR-bit-al nerve
Branch of the maxillary division of the trigeminal nerve, often at risk during maxillofacial oncology surgery.
Full Definition
The infraorbital nerve is a terminal branch of the maxillary nerve (cranial nerve V2) that provides sensory innervation to the lower eyelid, lateral nose, and upper lip. In head and neck oncology, this nerve is frequently at risk during maxillectomy, orbital floor reconstruction, and sinonasal tumor resections. Injury to this nerve results in numbness or altered sensation in its distribution, which can significantly impact quality of life. Preoperative assessment and intraoperative nerve identification are crucial for minimizing morbidity.
Usage
Usage note: Document nerve status (preserved, sacrificed, or injured) in oncological resection reports.
In Context
- "The infraorbital nerve was carefully preserved during the maxillectomy procedure." — Operative report
- "Postoperative infraorbital nerve dysfunction resulted in persistent facial numbness." — Complication documentation