J Reconstr Microsurg 2009; 25(9): 539-543
DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1234025
© Thieme Medical Publishers

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

Jeroen M. Smit1 , Pieter Q. Ruhe2 , Rafael Acosta1 , Jan G. Kooloos3 , Ed H.M Hartman2
  • 1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
  • 2Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
  • 3Department of Anatomy, Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
12 August 2009 (online)

ABSTRACT

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 ease 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.

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Rafael AcostaM.D. 

Chief, Reconstructive Microsurgery, Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Uppsala University Hospital

SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden

Email: Rafael.Acosta.Rojas@akademiska.se

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