Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography Angiography for Safer Filler Injections in Lying Ear Corrections: Identifying...

Area of Science:

• Anatomy
• Medical Imaging
• Cosmetic Surgery

Background:

• Potential complications of injectable cosmetic treatments for ear correction exist.
• Understanding ear vasculature is crucial for safe procedures.
• This study addresses safety concerns in ear filler treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate blood vessel distribution in the ear and face relevant to ear filler procedures.
• To identify safe and high-risk anatomical areas for ear correction injections.
• To enhance the safety of cosmetic ear correction using filler injections.

Main Methods:

• Utilized 3D computed tomography angiography (CTA) on 50 cadaveric head specimens.
• Created detailed 3D vascular models of the cephalo-auricular sulcus.
• Established a coordinate system and divided the posterior cephalo-auricular region into defined zones (A, B, C1, C2, D).

Main Results:

• Identified the medial temporal artery, posterior auricular artery (PAA), and superior auricular artery as primary blood sources.
• Discovered two hypovascular (less vascular) regions: B and C1, located between the cephalo-auricular sulcus and the PAA.
• Measured specific distances from the PAA to these safer regions, indicating lower vascular density.

Conclusions:

• Regions A, C2, and D are identified as higher-risk areas for filler injections due to vascular proximity.
• Regions B and C1 are determined to be relatively safer injection sites for ear correction.
• Findings provide critical anatomical data for the safe administration of ear fillers.