The Nasolabial Fold as Potential Vascular Receptor Site : An Anatomic Study

• Free and pedicled flaps are frequently used in reconstruction of the lower two-thirds of the face. For these reconstructions, the submandibular facial vessels are extensively used as a receptor site. In this anatomic study, we investigate if the facial vessels in the nasolabial fold can be used as a receptor site as well. In 13 human cadavers, the facial artery and vein were dissected in the nasolabial fold in the same way as would be done during surgery. The case of dissection and length, diameter, and location of the vessels were analyzed. The average length of the dissected artery was 28 mm (+/- 11 standard deviations [SD]) and of the dissected vein, 19 mm (+/- 6 SD). The mean diameter of the artery was 1.5 mm (+/- 0.4 SD) and 2.5 mm (+/- 0.8 SD) for the vein. In 85% of the sides, both vessels were suitable to use as a microsurgical receptor site. The easy access and the measured diameter of the facial vessels in the nasolabial fold make it a potential site for microsurgical anastomosis.

Subject headings

MEDICIN OCH HÄLSOVETENSKAP  -- Klinisk medicin -- Kirurgi (hsv//swe)

MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES  -- Clinical Medicine -- Surgery (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Facial artery

receptor site

nasolabial fold

free flap

reconstruction

Plastic surgery

Plastikkirurgi

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

art (subject category)