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Published on: May 26, 2015
Three-Dimensional Computed Tomographic Study of the Supratrochlear Artery and Supraorbital Artery to Determine
Zhi-Feng Liao1,2, Li-Yao Cong1, Wei-Jin Hong1
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
Background:
The forehead has high risks associated with filler injection considering its highly complex vascular system. This study aims to thoroughly describe the anatomical variations and relationships between the supratrochlear artery (STA) and supraorbital artery (SOA).
Materials And Methods:
We studied 56 cadaveric heads by computed tomography after contrast-agent injection.
Results:
The deep branch of the STA originated in the deep superior orbital arcade and the ophthalmic artery (OA), whereas that of the SOA originated at 3 locations: the deep superior orbital arcade, deep superior orbital artery, and OA. The superficial branch of the STA also had 3 origins: the superficial superior orbital arcade, OA, and angular artery, whereas the superficial branch of the SOA had 2 origins: the superficial superior orbital arcade and OA. Based on the relationship between the STA and SOA, 2 main arterial distribution patterns were observed in both superficial and deep layer arteries: STA/SOA connected pattern and STA/SOA disconnected pattern, of which the latter pattern has 3 subtypes.
Conclusion:
The forehead arteries have complex origins. The relationship of the supratrochlear and supraorbital arteries could be categorized into 2 main patterns. The study elucidated the complexity of the forehead vasculature.
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