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Superimposition Study to Determine the Angular Arterial Distribution and Its Clinical Application
Hyun Jin Shin1, Hee-Jin Kim2, Wu-Chul Song3
1From the Department of Ophthalmology, Research Institute of Medical Science, Konkuk University Medical Center, Konkuk University School of Medicine.
Insights
This study mapped the angular artery (AA) distribution in the medial canthal area. Findings reveal the AA
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Surgical Anatomy
- Vascular Anatomy
Background:
- The medial canthal area is crucial for facial aesthetics and function.
- Preventing angular artery (AA) injury during facial surgery in this region is vital.
Purpose of the Study:
- To precisely map the distribution of the angular artery (AA) within the medial canthal region.
- To establish a reliable arterial course for the AA to guide surgical procedures.
- To minimize the risk of AA injury during medial canthal and nasal root surgeries.
Main Methods:
- Dissection of 36 hemifaces from 18 cadavers to analyze AA course and location.
- Measurement of horizontal distances from the medial canthus to the AA.
- Ultrasonography on living subjects to determine AA diameter and depth.
Main Results:
- The angular artery (AA) was predominantly located within the vertical line of the medial canthus.
- Mean horizontal distances from the medial canthus level and 2 cm below were 9.0 ± 2.0 mm and 1.9 ± 2.4 mm, respectively.
- Ultrasonography showed the AA situated 2.3 ± 0.9 mm beneath the skin with a diameter of 1.7 ± 0.3 mm.
Conclusions:
- The angular artery (AA) exhibits a consistent course along the nasojugal fold.
- AA distribution is concentrated between the medial canthus and facial midline, scarce in lateral thirds.
- Detailed knowledge of AA anatomy aids surgeons in preventing vascular injury and reducing surgical risks.
Background:
The purpose of this study was to determine the distribution of the angular artery (AA) in the medial canthal area with the aim of defining an arterial course to prevent AA injury during facial surgery in this region.
Methods:
The authors dissected 36 hemifaces of 18 cadavers. The horizontal distance from the vertical level through the medial canthus to the AAs was measured. The AA course of each specimen was then recorded, and all of them were then superimposed to determine the AA course. The diameter and depth of the AA around the medial canthal area were also investigated using ultrasonography on living subjects.
Results:
The horizontal distances from the medial canthus level and 2 cm below the medial canthus were 9.0 ± 2.0 mm (mean ± SD) and 1.9 ± 2.4 mm, respectively. The superimposed image demonstrated that most of the AAs were present inside the vertical line through the medial canthus. Ultrasonography indicated that the AA was 2.3 ± 0.9 mm below the skin and 1.7 ± 0.3 mm in diameter.
Conclusions:
The AA course was relatively constant along the nasojugal fold. The AAs were most often present between the middle of the medial canthus and the facial midline, but were very scarce in both the medial and lateral thirds. Knowledge of the detailed course of the AA may help surgeons to avoid arterial injury and decrease the risk of surgical morbidities around the nasal root and medial canthal area.
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