Clinical Relevance of the Variability of the Infraorbital Arterial Anatomy Evaluated by Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography

Background

Knowledge of the anatomy of the infraorbital artery (IOA) is crucial for the rejuvenation of the anterior medial aspect of the midface; however, studies adequately describing the anatomy of the IOA branches are lacking, and their connection with the ophthalmic artery branches remains unclear.

Objectives

This study aims to elucidate the anatomical characteristics of the IOA in its deployment within the lower eyelid using three-dimensional (3D) technology, thereby offering an anatomical foundation for clinical surgical procedures.

Methods

An analysis was conducted on computed tomography scans of 132 cadaveric head sides post-contrast injection, utilizing the Mimics software for reconstruction. The study focused on examining the anastomosis of the IOA, its principal branches, and the branches emanating from the ophthalmic artery.

Results

The prevalence of type I IOA was observed at 38.6% (51/132), while Type II IOA was found in 61.4% (81/132) of cases. A 7.6% incidence (10/132) of IOA directly anastomosing with the angular artery was noted. The presence of palpebral branches (PIOA) was identified in 57.6% (76/132) of instances. In the lower eyelid, four distinct distribution patterns of IOA were discerned: The likelihood of Type I PIOA was 5.3%, whereas for Types IIA, IIB, and IIC PIOA, the probabilities were 8.3%, 32.6%, and 11.4%, respectively. The occurrence of the orbital branch of IOA was recorded at 41.7% (55/132).

Conclusions

3D technology can map IOA variants and identify the deployment patterns of IOA branches in the lower eyelid vascular vesicles at high resolution as a guide in clinical practice.

Level of Evidence IV

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