Sonoanatomy of the muscles of facial expression.

Primary anatomic studies served for identification and differentiation of the individual mimetic muscles. As a second step, we investigated the clinical potential of ultrasound imaging to visualize the mimetic musculature in 15 volunteers. This examination technique was used to diagnose pathological alterations, especially associated with facial palsy. The excellent sonographic visualization of the mimetic musculature indicates that this technique may be a valuable adjunct in the diagnosis and differentiation of facial palsy, as well as in planning plastic surgery and reconstructive procedures, and in follow-up care.