Transverse Facial Artery Morphometry Based on Head Dimensions and Palpable Anatomical Landmarks.

Abstract

The transverse facial artery (TFA) is a key vascular structure supplying the lateral region of the face. Because of its central location, the artery is vulnerable to transection during lateral facial rejuvenation and other invasive facial procedures. The authors of this study aim to determine the location of the TFA origin relative to 2 palpable bony landmarks: the head of the mandible and the upper border of the zygomatic arch. Thirty hemifaces from 15 embalmed cadaveric heads were examined. Two palpable landmarks-the upper border of the zygomatic arch and the tip of the mandibular head-were marked using pins. After intra-arterial injection of a mixture of liquid latex and red acrylic paint, a vertical skin incision was made anterior to the tragus to expose the TFA origin. Vertical distances from the TFA origin to each landmark were then measured. In all specimens, the TFA originated from the superficial temporal artery. The mean vertical distance from the origin of the TFA to the upper border of the zygomatic arch was 26.6 ± 8.2 mm and to the tip of the mandibular head was 17 ± 6.87 mm. The small diameter and deep anatomical location of the TFA complicate its visualization on radiologic imaging. However, its origin can be reliably approximated using palpable landmarks. Preoperative identification of these landmarks may reduce the risk of iatrogenic vascular injury and improve the safety of lateral facial interventions.