Test the motor function of the facial nerve

Question 1

List the branches of the facial nerve

Answer 1

1. Temporal branch
2. Zygomatic branch
3. Buccal branch
4. Mandibular branch
5. Cervical branch

Question 2

Demonstrate how to test the motor functions of the different branches of the facial nerve based on their myotomes

Answer 2

1. Temporal - raise eyebrows
2. Zygomatic - scrunch eyes shut then open
3. Buccal - smile
4. Mandibular - puff out cheeks
5. Cervical - reveal lower teeth - platysma contraction