Application of computed tomographic angiography and a three-dimensional reconstruction technique for repairing facial
Xiaomin Yang1,2, Yongjing He1, Qiyang Wang2
1Department of Plastic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China.
Abstract:
This study aims to assess the clinical value of computed tomographic angiography (CTA) and three-dimensional reconstruction techniques in the repair of facial skin defects. A total of 40 patients with facial trauma or scars underwent free flap transplantation. CTA and 3D reconstruction were used preoperatively in 23 patients to measure blood vessel diameter, location, direction, and branching, as well as the relationship between the vessels, skin flap, and surrounding tissues. Superficial temporoparietal, facial, thoracic, dorsal, and scapular arteriovenous vessels were analyzed. The flap harvesting time, overall operation time, and incidence of flap-related complications such as blood supply disorders or reoperation were recorded. The preoperative imaging findings were consistent with the intraoperative vascular anatomy in all cases, with no statistically significant differences observed. Additionally, no cases of reoperation, blood supply disorders, or flap necrosis occurred. CTA and 3D reconstruction accurately reflect key vascular characteristics, providing a reliable digital anatomical guide for surgery.
