From Galen To Eustachio: Discovering The Anatomy Of The Facial Nerve

Objective: To discuss the historical relevance of the original illustrations and descriptions of the facial nerve during the Italian Renaissance (ca. late 14th to early 17th centuries). Material and Methods: Graphic and textual information related to facial nerve discoveries were harvested from the works of the study period's anatomists, with special attention to those of Leonardo da Vinci, Andreas Vesalius, Gabrielle Falloppio, and Bartolomeo Eustachio. The importance of Galen's anatomical works as a guide to these discoveries is discussed. Conclusion: The reviewed texts and the illustrations therein contained provided sufficient information to establish a sequence of discoveries that resulted in a near-modern knowledge of the anatomy of the facial nerve and the basis to comprehend its function.