Arterial Patterns of the Face in Camelidamorpha

Area of Science:

• Comparative anatomy
• Veterinary anatomy
• Morphology

Background:

• The arterial supply to the face is crucial for understanding regional anatomy and potential surgical interventions.
• Existing literature lacks detailed comparative analysis of facial arteries within the Tylopoda suborder.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and compare the arteries supplying the facial regions in selected Tylopoda species.
• To identify unique vascularization patterns within the Camelidae family.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 27 camelid heads (five species) using arterial injection with stained vinyl or latex.
• Detailed dissection and morphological examination of facial arteries.

Main Results:

• Vascularization of facial regions involves the facial, sublingual, mental, transverse facial, buccal, and infraorbital arteries.
• The linguofacial trunk is absent in Camelidae.
• The deep temporal artery's origin varies: common trunk with transverse facial in camels, direct branch of maxillary in llamas and alpacas.

Conclusions:

• Facial artery patterns in Camelidamorpha are specific to this clade and distinct from other artiodactyls.
• These findings expand morphological knowledge of Camelidae and offer clinical relevance for veterinary practice.