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Morphometrical aspect on angular branch of facial artery
Nuket Gocmen-Mas1, Mete Edizer, Nigar Keles
1*Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir †Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Akdeniz University, Antalya ‡Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Yakin Dogu University, Limasol, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus §Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery ||Department of Neurosurgery, Faculty of Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey.
This study details the anatomical variations of the angular artery, crucial for facial surgery. Understanding these variations improves surgical outcomes in procedures like dacryocystorhinostomy.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Surgical Anatomy
- Vascular Anatomy
Background:
- The angular artery, a terminal branch of the facial artery, is vital in facial anatomy.
- Anatomical variations of the angular artery can impact reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries.
- Limited studies exist on the detailed anatomy of the angular artery and its variations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively evaluate the anatomical features of the angular artery.
- To provide detailed topographic data to aid surgeons in facial procedures.
- To investigate the prevalence of different angular artery types and their branching patterns.
Main Methods:
- Dissection of 16 adult cadavers (32 sides) under ×4 loop magnification.
- Evaluation of angular artery position, diameter, and branching patterns.
- Classification of angular artery types based on their termination and relation to nasal structures.
Main Results:
- The facial artery terminated as the angular artery in all specimens.
- Variations in angular artery types were observed: classical angular (25.0%), nasal (46.9%), alar (12.5%), and labial (15.6%).
- Symmetrical termination of the facial artery occurred in 62.5% of cadavers.
Conclusions:
- Detailed anatomical knowledge of the angular artery is essential for successful surgical interventions.
- Understanding angular artery variations enhances the reliability of facial flaps.
- This study provides critical data for improving cosmetic and functional results in facial surgery.
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