DEPTH AND ANATOMICAL VARIATIONS OF THE FACIAL ARTERY: A 3D CT ANGIOGRAPHIC STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: The facial artery is the principal vessel responsible for the arterial supply to the jaw and face. Awareness of its variable course is essential to prevent complications after clinical procedures, such as intra-arterial filler injections. This study aims to examine the anatomy and depth of the facial artery using three-dimensional CT angiography in the Turkish population, thereby providing guidance for clinicians based on data relevant to procedures performed in the facial region.Method: The study included 110 individuals (72 men, 38 women) aged 18–65. A total of 204 facial arteries were evaluated: 16 unilateral and 94 bilateral, with 108 on the right and 96 on the left. CT angiographic images were analysed using the Syngo.via workstation (version VB30A_HF06, Siemens, Germany) via the Fuji PACS. Multiple anatomical parameters of the facial artery were assessed.Results: Depth measurements revealed differences between the skin–artery distance at the groove of the facial artery and the bone–artery distance. The distribution of artery types was as follows: right side—13 type 1, 92 type 3, 1 type 4, 2 type 5; left side—5 type 1, 90 type 3, 1 type 4. Significant differences were found between sides for all types (p<0.001). Distances to the ala of the nose, medial canthus, midpoint of the orbit, and the commissure were also statistically significant (p=0.042, 0.010, 0.005, <0.001). Nasolabial fold (NLF) classification showed four variation types on both sides, again with significant right–left disparities (p<0.001).Conclusions: Understanding the depth and variations of the facial artery in commonly treated facial regions may enhance clinician confidence and procedural safety. Radiological depth assessment further reduces dependence on time-consuming cadaver studies