The Anatomical Specificity Between Acupoints and the Facial Nerve: A Cadaveric Study.

Objective: This research was conducted to increase precision of point location and standardize acupoint targets in relation to the facial nerve (CN VII).

Materials and methods: A literature review, cadaver dissection, and electrostimulation of the CN VII were performed, focusing on the anatomical locations of the acupoints along the facial-nerve trajectory. The results were contrasted against established acupoint locations described in the 4th edition of Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion.

Results: Triple Energizer (TE)-17 targets the facial nerve at its cranial exit; Qian Zheng at the facial nerve trunk; Tai Yang at the frontotemporal branch; Gallbladder (GB)-3 at the zygomatic branch; Small Intestine (SI)-18 at the buccal branch; Stomach (ST)-5 at the marginal mandibular branch; SI-17 at the cervical branch; TE-18 at the posterior auricular branch; TE-19 at the posterior auricular nerve; TE-20 at the superior auricular nerve; and TE-22 at the anterior auricular nerve.

Conclusions: This study demonstrated the specificity with which acupuncture points are located in relation to the facial nerve. Standardization of facial acupuncture points to distinct branches of the facial nerve will facilitate reproducible research designs and interpractitioner reproducibility.